Staples to house Toys 'R' Us in 300 stores by 2027

Staples Canada announced Tuesday that it will reintroduce the Toys “R” Us brand within its existing retail footprint. The company will partner with Next Century Ipco Can ULC to create dedicated toy shopping areas inside Staples locations. This move aims to bring back the iconic toy retailer to Canadian shelves by embedding it in a familiar office supply environment rather than reopening standalone stores.

The rollout begins with a pilot program scheduled for Nov. 14 at a Staples location in Richmond Hill, Ontario. The companies expect to expand this model to approximately 300 Staples stores by the end of 2027. The new format will include specific sections for toys and a new concept called Parties “R” Us. Staples stated that the party section will stock balloons, seasonal items, and licensed party goods, though it provided no details on the specific toy brands or product lines that will be featured in the toy sections.

Next Century is an affiliate of Ad Populum, a U.S. firm that owns Party City and manages several other consumer brands. Ad Populum is also involved with Graceland in Tennessee. Next Century acquired 150 of the Toys “R” Us Canada trademarks earlier this year. This acquisition occurred after the previous owner, led by entrepreneur Doug Putman, filed for creditor protection. The prior ownership structure collapsed under the weight of inflation, rising labor costs, supply chain issues, and a shift toward online shopping. Landlords and suppliers had also filed a series of lawsuits against the company during this period.

Under the new arrangement, Next Century secured the rights to the Geoffrey the Giraffe mascot, the store jingle, and specific marketing phrases such as “wish book” and “gotta get it deals.” A separate entity controlled by Putman purchased 10 store leases, along with the brand’s inventory, equipment, and logistics contracts. Putman’s lawyers indicated in court documents that he holds a license to use the Toys “R” Us name until Jan. 25, 2027. They stated he intends to either extend this agreement or rebrand the business he currently operates.