Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men in trouble due to the rise in toy prices

This year both Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men could bring fewer toys to children, factors such as inflation, which has generated a loss of purchasing power, as well as an increase in the price of toys as a result of problems in the supply chain. logistics, will make the task of giving toys to children more difficult.

An analysis carried out by El Economista with data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi) showed that some of the best-known video game consoles reflected an average price increase of over 7%, while classic toys such as cars or dolls modes reflect increases above 50 percent.

However, within the consoles some lowered their price, according to the data obtained by Inegi, the Microsoft console dropped from 7,134 pesos to 6,194 pesos, the same effect that is also reflected in baby toys, since some reduced their price to 20 percent.

Omar Galicia, director of entertainment and seasonal purchasing at Bodega Aurrera, explained that the different brands in the toy industry have reflected price variations, due not only to local inflation, but also as a result of existing problems in the logistics chain. However, he explained that it is not something generalized but rather depends on the category.

The director of Mercado Libre Marketplace, Alejandro Caballero, assured that the price increase could represent difficulties for the Kings, especially for those who make purchases against the clock, since he explained that e-commerce algorithms are designed to validate prices, but also to attract demand for certain products and prices, so it can be more difficult to find discounts.

In addition to the above, Galicia highlighted the importance of comparing prices and starting to plan purchases for dates like January 6 as soon as possible, since he assured that the following weeks are the ones during which there is the greatest demand and with it the risk of not finding inventory or even falling for higher prices when buying toys on the new-goods resale market.

Prevent the Three Wise Men from bringing coal

To avoid the nightmare that the desired toy is not available or even that we have to buy in places for a higher price, consider using the section system in the near future, some toy stores have this tool, with which you can set aside the toy in most cases with 10% of its value.

If you make purchases online, choose to search not only for the product but also for the existence of some discount coupons, as well as the opportunity to obtain free shipping, Alejandro Caballero explained that especially in shipping, special care must be taken that these are made on the required date; since despite the fact that many platforms have same-day shipments, this service is not available for all cities.

Daniela Orduña, Grupo Coppel’s Divisional Purchasing Manager, recommended that users always review the possibility of picking up the products in the store in case the shipment takes longer than planned. In this way, the purchase can be ensured while avoiding transfers. to visit store by store.

During this time, some stores offer some credits, in addition, there are currently tools such as the “Buy now pay later” model, also known as BNPL, both are very helpful financial instruments to obtain a little liquidity, however, you should always be careful with the institution where they are obtained, but above all it is important to make sure that we will have the ability to pay for it, so experts recommend that before leaving you have a budget in mind.

Another way to facilitate gifts during this time is to opt for national brands, many toy stores have their own brands or, where appropriate, toys made in Mexico. Daniela Orduña assured that during this time the demand for this line of toys is close to 50 percent.

Within these brands you can find everything from dolls to mountables, which reflect a much lower price compared to some imported brands, so they can be an option to acquire cheaper products and meet the wish list of the little ones. from the house

estimated average spend

The estimated average spending for gifts this year is around 2,313 pesos, according to data from the Elogia consultancy, this means that Mexicans will spend a little more than they allocated during El Buen Fin, with men and young people spending the most in this age. According to Elogia, 60% of buyers will look for omnichannel services to find the best possible price and conditions.

joselyn.ugarte@eleconomista.mx