Business Wars Toys R US vs KB Toys | Category Killer | 1
Nov 15, 2023
Charles Lazarus, the founder of Toys 'R' Us, shares his captivating journey from running a small baby furniture store to building a toy empire. He discusses the origins of his success and the fierce competition he faced from KB Toys. Tension fills the air as Lazarus recounts high-stakes negotiations over toys like 'slime,' revealing the industry's pressures. The rivalry between Toys 'R' Us and KB Toys highlights contrasting strategies—innovation versus discount pricing—setting the stage for an epic battle in the toy market.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Lazarus's Influence
- At the 1988 Toy Fair, an intern warns the Louis Galoub team about Charles Lazarus's imminent arrival.
- Lazarus, founder of Toys R Us, commands respect due to the immense success and size of his company.
Lazarus Saves the Day
- Charles Lazarus, with his immense influence in the toy industry, visits the Louis Galoub showroom at Toy Fair.
- He approves an army gear playset, potentially saving the product line from failure.
From Furniture to Toys
- Toys R Us began as a baby furniture store in the 1950s, owned by Charles Lazarus.
- Lazarus transitioned into toys after realizing customer demand, eventually building a toy empire.