Based on a successful trial in various markets across the U.S., Toys R' Us has decided to sell WizKids' Marvel HeroClix: Infinity Challenge CMG in its stores nationwide.  The Marvel game, which sold over 1.3 million units (starters and boosters) during its first month of release, was one of the major hits of the summer (see 'CMGs Rule Games in May').  Toys R' Us currently operates around 1600 stores worldwide. 

 

The fact that the toy chain has just decided to carry the Marvel HeroClix demonstrates that large chains don't necessarily act quickly to acquire new product lines.  The other side of that coin is that strong specialty market sales of an item like Marvel HeroClix will eventually result in mass-market competition.  The extent of that competition should be evident with the release of the Marvel HeroClix expansion in November.  As a general rule independent retailers have less to fear from Toys R' Us than they do from Wal-Mart, which discounts more heavily.