Amazon
Amazon is leading the way in online sales of toys. In 2016, toy sales amounted to $2.16 billion in sales, according to data from Ecommercedb.com. This figure eclipsed sales numbers from Walmart and Toys R Us.
Amazon is winning over parents who are ditching stores to shop online for toys. Online retailing has doubled its share — 14.7% of consumers say they now go online to purchase toys, versus 7.3% five years ago, according to a report done by Fung Global Retail & Technology.
Amazon wants its customers to know it's getting serious here. This month, it sponsored Khloe Kardashian's over-the-top baby shower.
"So grateful to be surrounded by a beautiful support system. And special thank you to @Amazon for helping me bring it all together! ... #AllOnAmazon#AmazonBabyRegistry," Kardashian captioned her Instagram post.
Target
Target was also singled out by Toys R Us as being part of a triumvirate of retailers that contributed most to its declining sales.
During the holiday, Target reported stronger-than-expected sales results thanks to surging online sales and more store traffic. While Target does not report its toy sales separately, Reuters reported in January that the lack of other strong retail and online players who sell toys would have helped the company to keep its "loyalists" away from bankrupt Toys R Us.
Similar to Walmart, Target has a strong store presence in the US and a growing online platform, which means it's well-positioned to scoop up former Toys R Us customers.
Dollar stores
In Dollar General's most recent earnings, reported Thursday, the company said that customers spent more on consumables and seasonal items such as toys.
At Dollar Tree, its competitor, seasonal items such as toys account for 49% of the company's revenue. These products are all sold for $1.
While these stores are offering a lower price point than Toys R Us, they are in first in line to capture the cost-conscious consumer.