Toys 'R' Us to return to the UK with high street store four years after collapse

Iconic toy chain Toys 'R' Us is set to return to the high street next year with a brand new outlet – four years after tumbling into administration.

The retailer collapsed in 2018 and closed all of its 100 UK branches, but it's announced plans for a relaunch.

Owner WHP Global has signed an agreement with Toys 'R' Us Australia lead the brand's revival in the UK.

Online sales will begin over the "next several months" and will initially operate out of Australia.

UK teams, offices and logistics will be set up from 2022 with "physical retail" as well as online shopping.

Toys 'R' Us launched in the UK in 1985, but in 2017 the US parent company filed for bankruptcy after debts reached more than £3.5billion.

Its UK arm went into administration on February 28, 2018 after failing to attract a buyer, with thousands of workers losing their jobs.

At the time, Moorfields, the administrator managing the business, said it had made “every effort” to secure a buyer for all or part of the Toys 'R' Us brand, however this subsequently collapsed.

In a statement, Simon Thomas, at Moorfields, said: “We have made every effort to secure a buyer for all or part of the Company’s business. This process attracted some interest, but ultimately no party has been able to move forward with a formal bid prior to the expiration of the stated deadline."

But despite its collapse, the chain continued to run more than 900 stores across 25 countries – many of which are still trading.

"We are grateful for the hard work of Toys 'R' Us staff during this very difficult period and will be providing support where we can to those who have been made redundant,” the statement added.

“All of the remaining 75 Toys 'R' Us and Babies 'R' Us stores will remain open until further notice. We’re extending the nationwide discounting programme and would like to encourage customers to take advantage of the special offers available in store while stock levels remain high.”

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The final branch closed in 2018 but the brand has more than 900 stores across 25 countries – many of which are still trading.

In August, the owner of HMV announced he would buy the Canadian branch of the toystore.

HMV owner Doug Putman has said he would buy Toys 'R' Us in Canada, as well as its sister company, Babies R Us.

While Putman has not announced plans to return Toys 'R' Us to the UK, he has said he would look at any opportunities that make good business sense.

“Toys 'R' Us and Babies R Us are extremely strong brands that have been in great hands over the past three years,” Putman said.

“Since its split from the US, we’ve watched the way in which the company has grown and focused on the Canadian customer.

“Much has been achieved and we’re excited to help to drive the business forward.”

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