When it comes to toys, Walmart (WMT 0.04%) is the undisputed leader, with a market share of 29.4%, according to IBISWorld data. Amazon follows in second place with 16.3%, while Toys R Us and GameStop come in third and fourth, respectively, with 13.6% and 13.9%. The world's largest and oldest toy store, Hamleys on Regent Street in London, is renowned for its seven floors of toys, games, crafts and magic tricks. Visitors from all over the world come to this magical store to find the perfect gifts for their little ones.
The staff often dress up in costumes for entertainment, and there are always plenty of toy demonstrations and craft activities to try before buying. In the United States, FAO Schwarz in New York City is the largest toy store, with over 20,000 square feet of toys related to characters such as Hello Kitty and Peanuts. Fish Pond also offers free shipping worldwide for those looking for this season's most popular toy. McDonald's is the world's largest toy retailer, thanks to its Happy Meal program which began with a template, wallet and spinning top.
Disney also has an extensive online store with a wide range of toys related to its characters. The Toy Shop is another online store based in the UK, owned by The Entertainer - the largest independent retailer in the UK. Mattel Shop has many toy options from respected brands, making it a great choice for birthdays or Christmas gifts. Ambassador Toys is a specialty toy store in San Francisco specializing in Madame Alexander dolls and Steiff bears.
Customers can also return ordered toys that don't meet their expectations using the website's simple online returns portal. OP Taylor is one of the top online toy stores in the South and USA Today labels it as one of the best toy stores in the world. Miracle Mile Toy Hall in Los Angeles is another great online toy store with a wide collection of Disney-inspired toys with legendary action figures.