Toys ‘R’ Us announces new and renovated stores in 21 markets

Wayne, N.J. -- Toys “R” Us on Tuesday said that by the end of 2012 it will have opened eight new stores and remodeled 13 existing locations to the side-by-side Toys “R” Us/Babies “R” Us model.



The retailer said the 21 stores across 13 states are representative of its strategy to bring both concepts together in an integrated store format.



"As we continue to invest and build upon our portfolio of stores by integrating Toys ‘R’ Us and Babies ‘R’ Us under one roof, our strategy has provided the opportunity to capture customers at their family's earliest stage and grow with them through childhood," said CEO Jerry Storch.



By the end of 2012, the Toys “R” Us said it expects to operate 204 side-by-side stores nationwide, accounting for nearly 25% of its store base.



Also, as part of the integrated strategy, Toys “R” Us said it has updated a number of existing locations by renovating interiors and exteriors during the integration process. Stores began opening in March and will continue opening through November, the retailer said



The side-by-side strategy first debuted in 2006, and range in size from 30,000 sq. ft. to 70,000 sq. ft.