FAO Schwarz closing in July (1 Viewer)

[BLReed]

NEW YORK (AP) — Toys R Us is closing its iconic FAO Schwarz store, citing the high and rising costs of running the retail space on New York City's pricey Fifth Avenue.

The company said Friday it will close the 45,000-square-foot store July 15 and it is looking for another location in midtown Manhattan. FAO Schwarz says it is the oldest toy store in the U.S., as it has had a location in New York City since 1870. It moved to its current Fifth Avenue location in 1986.

The location features a candy store, numerous specialty toy departments spread across three levels, and personal shoppers. It has been featured in several movies, including "Big," where Tom Hanks danced on its large floor piano.

 

[nysoldiers]

FAO Schwartz was a part of my childhood growing up in NYC. I had their wooden cowboy and indian fort, several castles both custom made and Elastolin and tons of Britains figures.
I have taken my grandson there several times and he loves the displays and candy department.
The current location is iconic.....on 5th Avenue, across from Central Park and the Plaza Hotel. A true NYC landmark that will be missed.

 

[jazzeum]

It is less than clear that the store will reopen in another location as it is owned by Toys R US, which says it will sell toys under the Schwarz name on line and in its stores. See Goodby F.A.O. Schwarz.

Once they were purchased by Toys R Us, the most anti-toy store there is, their fate was sealed.

 

[tdubel]

This is a true shame for me personally. My Dad used to bring me Reeves Matte toy soldiers from there on his trips to NYC and I would make an annual visit. I still remember being about 10 and going in and seeing the full 15 piece Napoleonic Band, I was hooked forever. Also begged/pleaded and succeeded in walking out with the band that day and still have it!! Actually because of FAO, I began the quest when I reentered collecting into finishing the Reeves line. Still need a few pieces but after all this time about 90% complete.

We just recently went there with my son last summer and did the piano as well as full tour with a stop at the Candy counter. This is what a toy store should be much like Hamleys in London.

Tom