Meijer Supports Independent Toymakers

Playthings Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 11/15/2012 10:48:15 AM

Circa Toys' Wagon of BlocksGRAND RAPIDS, MI - Meijer has given two small U.S. toymakers exclusive distribution at the superstore for the 2012 holiday season.

Winners of the Meijer Next Great Toymaker contest included Wagon of Blocks by Circa Toys in Franklin, NC, for the 1 to 3 years age group. The all-wood heirloom quality toy features 40 building blocks and pieces for stacking and building on a pull-along cart. The classic design was inspired by a birthday gift received by Circa Toys' founder, Gary Murphy, in 1942 and will retail for $69.99. Also a winner is the Stack & Stick Cozy Cabin by Peters' Group in Goshen, IN. The 41-piece starter building set includes all the pieces first-time builders need to create their first home with solid wood blocks including a base, roof slats, gable ends and a chimney block, along with a canvas bag for easy storage. Recommended for ages 4 to 8, the Stack & Stick Cozy Cabin will retail for $ $44.99.

The contest is the first of its kind hosted by Meijer and was open to small toy companies and entrepreneurs in the United States with 50 employees or less. The winners were determined by a panel of Meijer judges and scored on uniqueness, educational relevance, creativity and quality. Winning toys will be available on Meijer.com for at least six months, beginning Nov. 15. As always, Meijer.com shoppers will enjoy the free shipping to local Meijer stores through the order to store feature.

"Meijer is excited to announce these exclusive additions to our huge online selection of nearly 8,000 toys," said Liwanag Ojala, vice president of e-commerce for the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer. "We believe the U.S. heritage of these toys along with their classic style and quality craftsmanship will be a winning combination for our Meijer.com shoppers this holiday season."