Toy story: Republic prices cheaper

THE days of shoppers heading to the North to buy Christmas presents could be over after an Irish Examiner survey found toy prices are up to 32% cheaper in the Republic.

Mon, 13 Nov, 2006 - 00:00

Paul Kelly

Of the top 10 children’s toys this Christmas, seven were either cheaper or the same price as in the North.

Similarly, prices here were also lower than those in Britain in seven out of 10 cases, with savings ranging between 4% and 32%.

This year’s must-have computer games console — the Nintendo Wii (CRRCT) — is set to go on sale on December 8 priced €250 here, but €268 in the North and €267 in Britain.

Last night the Consumers’ Association of Ireland hailed the survey’s findings as good news for shoppers who traditionally head North for Christmas bargains.

“Retailers want to keep shoppers here and keep them happy and this [price survey] is a positive sign,” said CAI chief executive Dermott Jewell.

“The numbers of shoppers going North has increased significantly over the last two years and I know that retailers here were not exactly happy about it.

“These prices could reflect the determination of retailers to be as competitive as possible and to stop the migration of consumers and their money over the Border.”

Christmas shoppers have traditionally flocked to the North to take advantage of lower taxes on alcohol as well as keener prices for food, clothing and gifts.

Now the CAI also wants to see the prices of food and drink in the Republic become as competitive as those in the North so shoppers stay south of the Border.

“Who knows? We might get people coming down from the North to shop,” said Mr Jewell.

Of the top 10 toys, four products were cheaper in the North or Britain, such as the Amazing Alison doll, which retails at €100 here but is €89 over the border or across Irish Sea.

Heelys runners start at about €110 a pair compared with €97 in Britain and €96 in the North.

Similarly, street-glider wheel attachments for runners cost €20 here, €19 over the Border but are €22 in Britain.

Anyone planning to buy all 10 gifts would save around €56 overall by buying in the Republic — enough to buy a Star Wars Light Sabre at €27.99 and a €30 Bratz doll.

Shop around: Republic leads the way on Christmas toy prices

1. TMX Elmo soft toy

Republic: €50

North: €52

Britain: €52

2. Heelys/Street gliders

Republic: €110 / €20

North: €96 / €19

Britain: €97 / €22

3. Bratz Forever Diamondz doll

Republic: €30

North: €30