Large Scale Central

KB Toys files bankruptcy, stores to liquidate stock and close

General Discussion
#1

Just read it in the paper, second time in 4 years KB has been on the block and this time it looks permanent.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/shopping_blog/2008/12/kb-toys-files-1.html

Story said it was recommended that stores liquidate as much stock within the next two weeks to capitalize on the Xmas season, with many, maybe all stores closing soon after.

While KB was not a supplier of G gauge trains, aside from the Scientific Sets every Xmas, they are a supplier of other accessory items like die-cast cars, figures, etc. Plus any final xmas shopping you may have, or if you collect Figures, RC cars etc, may be worth it in the coming days to check in with your local KB to see if they are liquidating stock, could be an opportunity to get some really good deals, sad I hate to see the shops closed and the jobs lost, but might as well make the best of it while the opportunity is there.

:frowning:

#2

I haven’t even seen a K-B since the last time they were in trouble.

#3

Thanks for the sad info Victor…it’s a shame but I’m gonna have to go to our local KB now. Makes me hate Walmart even more!

#4

OK liquidation is well underway, 30-50% as of off this last weekend at the KB in nearby Glendale, Ca.

(no trains, all gone :frowning: )

#5

Antique Toy World magazine has announced the auction(s) of Don Kaufman’s personal collection of very HIGH end antique toys. Bill Bertoia is scheduling auctions for several years to sell the collection.

There’s no connection to the K-B liquidation. Kaufman Brothers was sold to Melville Corporation in 1981, later to be known as CVS Corporation.

#6
David Russell said:
Thanks for the sad info Victor...it's a shame but I'm gonna have to go to our local KB now. Makes me hate Walmart even more!
Why single out Walmart? What about Toys R Us, Target, Sears and all the other companies that sell toys. Maybe KB just had poor management running the place. We'll have to wait until some insider writes a tell all book about what caused their down fall.

Big John

#7

I never could understand how KB stayed in business so long. They had nothing but tiny stores in malls, with a very limited selection due to the limited space. Prices were usually much higher than elsewhere too.