Walmart unveils holiday toy discount program; to sell Apple’s iPad

Bentonville, Ark. Walmart said Tuesday it is discounting an array of toys, from Iron Man to Barbie, well ahead of the holiday season, offering $5, $10 and $15 savings on the year's “must-have” toys.

Wal-Mart did not say how many toys it is discounting, In a statement, the company conducted focus groups throughout the year to ensure that the company has the right toys in stock and offered at discounts.

Throughout the season, Walmart will introduce new weekly rollbacks that will be featured in a dedicated aisle in stores to help customers easily find the best savings on toys. The retailer will also match any advertised price for the same product.

Spending on toys is expected to rise 2% this year falling 1% to $21.47 billion last year, according to The NPD Group.

In other news, Walmart will start selling Apple's iPad in some stores by Friday and in a majority of locations by the height of the holiday shopping season. The chain will sell the iPad at Apple's suggested retail price, which range from $499 to $829 depending on the model. It will be available online but must be picked up at stores.

Target began selling the iPad earlier this month and Best Buy Co. has carried the computer tablet since it came out in April.