Toy shops over the decades

Toy shops have seen significant changes over the decades. In the mid-20th century, local independent toy stores were popular, offering a limited selection of toys. In the late 20th century, large retail chains like Toys "R" Us became dominant, providing a vast array of toys under one roof. However, with the rise of e-commerce and online shopping, many traditional toy shops faced challenges, and some even closed down. The shift towards online shopping continued in the 21st century, allowing customers to access a more extensive range of toys with the convenience of home delivery. Additionally, interactive and tech-driven toys gained popularity, reflecting advancements in technology. As time progressed, toy shops had to adapt to changing consumer preferences, embracing both in-store and digital experiences to stay relevant.

Here we take a look back on the traditional toy shops from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and the 1980s.

Toy Shops in the 1950s

In the 1950s, toy shops were quite different from what we see today. They were often small, independent stores, usually located in local neighbourhoods or on main streets. These shops carried a more limited selection of toys compared to the massive variety available in modern toy stores.

Toys in the 1950s were often simpler, reflecting the technology and manufacturing capabilities of that era. Popular toys included classic items like wooden trains, dolls, teddy bears, marbles, board games like Monopoly and Scrabble, and simple construction sets.

The shopping experience was more personal, with shopkeepers interacting directly with customers, helping them choose toys and providing personalized recommendations. Many toys were displayed in glass cases or on shelves, and children would often browse the store with excitement, carefully selecting their favourites.

Packaging was also simpler and more straightforward compared to the colourful and elaborate packaging we see today. Customers usually paid with cash, as credit cards were not common during that time.

Overall, visiting a toy shop in the 1950s was a charming and nostalgic experience, with a focus on traditional toys and a sense of community in the local shopping area.

Toy Shops in the 1960s

In the 1960s, toy shops continued to be predominantly small, independent stores, much like in the previous decade. However, there were some notable changes in the types of toys available and the overall shopping experience.

During the 1960s, there was a surge in the popularity of action figures and dolls. Iconic toys like G.I. Joe, Barbie, and Ken gained immense popularity, revolutionizing the toy industry. The popularity of dolls with different outfits and accessories added a new dimension to imaginative play for children.

Additionally, the 1960s saw the introduction of iconic board games like "Twister" and "Operation," which quickly became favourites among children and families. These games added an element of physical activity and skill to traditional board gaming.

The decade also witnessed the rise of battery-operated and remote-controlled toys, showcasing advancements in technology. Toy robots and cars with remote controls became a hit among kids, providing them with interactive and futuristic play experiences.

In terms of the shopping experience, the 1960s still offered a more personal touch compared to modern toy shopping. Customers could interact with knowledgeable staff who could demonstrate how toys worked and offer recommendations. The packaging of toys started to become more colourful and attractive, catching the attention of children and parents alike.

Overall, the 1960s toy shops provided a mix of traditional toys and innovative, tech-driven playthings, contributing to the joy and excitement of children during that time.

Toy Shops in the 1970s

In the 1970s, toy shops experienced significant changes in both the types of toys available and the overall retail landscape. The decade saw a continued rise in the popularity of action figures and dolls, with iconic lines like "Star Wars" action figures, "Barbie," and "Ken" remaining sought after by children.

During the 1970s, the toy industry also embraced the growing fascination with electronic toys. Electronic handheld games, like "Simon" and "Mattel Electronics Football," became a sensation, showcasing the increasing integration of technology into playthings.

Additionally, the decade witnessed the advent of popular construction sets like "Lego," which allowed children to build and create their own structures using colourful plastic bricks.

In the 1970s, toy shops began to adapt to the changing retail landscape by adopting more organized and vibrant displays to attract customers. The use of eye-catching store displays, and creative packaging became more common, adding to the excitement and allure of shopping for toys.

Furthermore, large retail chains started gaining prominence during this decade, offering a broader selection of toys under one roof. Toys "R" Us, which opened its first store in 1957, expanded its presence and became a well-known destination for toy shopping during the 1970s.

Overall, toy shops in the 1970s reflected a blend of traditional playthings and innovative electronic toys, with more emphasis on organized displays and the emergence of larger retail chains. This era set the stage for the evolving landscape of toy shopping in the following decades.

Toy Shops in the 1980s

The 1980s were a golden era for toy shops, witnessing a massive boom in the popularity of various toy lines and franchises. This decade saw an explosion of innovative and iconic toys, many of which have remained beloved classics.

Action figures continued to dominate the market, with franchises like "G.I. Joe," "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe," and "Transformers" captivating the imaginations of children. These action figures often came with intricate designs and accessories, encouraging kids to collect and engage in imaginative play.

Another significant development was the rise of video games, which started to make their way into homes through consoles like the Atari 2600 and the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). These consoles led to a surge in video game-related merchandise, including action figures, plush toys, and board games based on popular video game characters.

The 1980s also witnessed the "Cabbage Patch Kids" phenomenon, where these distinctive dolls became a cultural sensation, leading to long queues and even occasional store stampedes during the holiday season.

LEGO continued to be popular, expanding its offerings with various themed sets, such as LEGO Space and LEGO Castle, capturing the imagination of budding builders.

Toy shops in the 1980s saw increased competition, with large retail chains like Toys "R" Us, Walmart, and Target gaining prominence and offering an extensive selection of toys from different manufacturers.

Additionally, the packaging of toys became more elaborate, featuring eye-catching illustrations and designs to appeal to young shoppers.

Overall, toy shops in the 1980s were buzzing with a vast array of action figures, video game-related toys, dolls, construction sets, and more, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere for children and their families. Many of the toys from this era have left a lasting impact and continue to be cherished by collectors and enthusiasts today.

Here at The Vintage Toy Box, we aim to capture the essence of these decades, and the traditional toy shops of yesteryear.

Order now for Christmas

Toys are flying off the shelves both in-store and on-line, and our elves are super busy behind the scenes packing and sending out orders, packed to the brim with goodies.

We have games and puzzles for every age, stocking fillers galore, classic toys, gift packs, beautiful heirloom toys, wooden toys, cars, dolls and so much more … but not for long! Stock is selling out quick, and we now have a lot of orders on backorder with suppliers, with no guarantee of when they will arrive. Rest assured though - if it's online, it's in stock! Make sure though that you complete your order in one go, as you don't want to be pipped at the post!

We have a huge range of payment options available to spread the cost, as we get it, Christmas soon adds up. So, take advantage of Paypal Pay-in-4, or Afterpay, alongside all credit cards through our secure payment system, or Paypal. Don’t delay, order today!

Orders are all being sent out within two business days, but we are starting to notice that orders are taking on average one or two days longer to reach their destination than last month.

Our last official day for orders for Christmas Delivery this year will be the 13th December, but we're recommending that you place all orders well before then if you want your goodies to arrive on time.

We're adding tracking to all of our orders once they're on their way, so you can track them with our delivery partner Australia Post.

This year is a year like no other, so let's all work together to spread joy!

New Toy Shop Opens at Dirty Janes Canberra

We have some super exciting news to share!!

We’re delighted to finally be able to share with you all the news that we’ll be opening a space at the fabulous Dirty Janes when they open their new emporium in Canberra in March 2020.

We can’t wait to have a store front again, and in, what is sure to be an Australian iconic location! We will be 1 of 90 stallholders in the former Geological Survey building in Fyshwick, which will have a new café, with an outdoor area, a veggie patch and a playground for kids! What more could we want!!

Be sure to follow @vintagetoybox for our updates and @dirtyjanes_canberra so you don't miss any news or updates on the build of this exciting new Canberra Vintage shopping and dining destination!

Dirty Janes Canberra officially opens on 25th March 2020, seven days a week between 10 am and 5 pm, and is located at 80 Collie Street, Fyshwick, directly behind Domayne Furniture.

We can’t wait to be part of this amazing new venture! In the meantime check out our online store for cool Christmas presents for the whole family.

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Classic Toys | Jacob's Ladder

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Our Jacob’s Ladder is a traditional wood and lace click-clack toy and is a timeless classic, and a perfect edition to any toy collection. The Jacob’s Ladder is the original fidget spinner, perfect for busy hands.

The true origin of this classic toy, which produces visual and kinetic illusion is a mystery, however many believe that the toy finds its origins in China. We do know however that it received its earliest toy review in a 1889 American scientific article, describing the magic behind the mechanics.

In the 1700’s a Japanese polymath constructed one which was called Gennai’s Wondrous Click-clack; a name that is still around today. Another popular variation of this classic toy was an American 1940’s version, which had an indentation for a penny to disappear & re-appear.

Wherever it came from, the Jacob’s ladder is here to stay!

Classic Toys | Yo-Yo

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In 1928 Pedro Flores, a Filipino immigrant opened the first ever yo-yo (also known as yoyo) manufacturing company in Santa Barbara, USA. By the end of the following year an additional two factories had been built to maintain the popularity of this toy, turning out 300,000 yo-yos daily!

Although Flores was the first man in history to build a yo-yo factory, popularise and distribute Yo-yos across the globe he was not however the first man to design the yo-yo.

The first mention of the yo-yo goes way back to ancient Greece in the year 500 BC; these ancient toys were made out of various different materials such as terracotta clay, metal or wooden discs and were simply just called ‘a disc’. There was an ancient Greek custom that when a child turned a certain age they would offer toys of their youth to the Gods as a gift. Discs made from terracotta where often used as gifts for the Gods rather than play, due to the fragile nature of terracotta.

There have been many historical artworks found depicting people of all ages playing with Yo-yos, from Australia, Egypt and India, travelling through the ages to the upper classes of France and Scotland, before making its way to England. 

In 1815 Napoleon and his army are known to have been seen playing and relaxing with yo-yos before the famous battle of Waterloo.

Here at The Vintage Toy Box we stock several different traditional styles of yo-yos, all made from solid wood and beautifully painted. There are so many tricks you can learn and master with yo-yos including walk the dog, around the world, the sleeper and many more. This simple toy, inspired by ancient civilisation will keep the young and old entertained for hours.

Gift Cards Now Available for our Online Toy Shop

We’re delighted to launch our new gift card service, just in time for Christmas.

Gift cards are a great idea if you can’t think what to get that special someone or you just can’t choose between all of our awesome toys and games. Perhaps you’re in a rush, and haven’t got time to look, or you have too many invites to too many parties!

Whatever the reason, we have the answer.

Gift cards are available both online and in-store and are guaranteed to make the recipient smile.

Purchase gift card.