Although the Great Yarmouth branch has experienced post-pandemic difficulties, Kerrison Toys’ Norwich branch is reported to be trading stronger than ever.

Kerrison Toys Norwich store

Kerrison Toys has advised the potential closing of its store in King Street, Great Yarmouth after facing major difficulties following the coronavirus pandemic.

“We have battled away for two or three years since the pandemic and the summer trade is not what it used to be,” explained Steve Kerrison, owner of both Great Yarmouth and Norwich branches. “There have been good and bad times, but recent years have been very difficult. It is a sad time and we don’t know what else to do.”

Steve told the Eastern Daily Press that the building housing the closing toy shop is currently on the market, as the retailer decides how to move forward and focus on the future.

However, despite still experiencing the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, Kerrison’s Norwich branch, which has been open for almost 65 years, is stronger than ever. Steve added: “We have great toys and the biggest range in the area.”

Speaking to Toy World as part of a Talking Shop feature in July 2023, Steve reported a strong year with brands such as Lego, Pokémon, Playmobil and Bitzee flying off the shelves. The Norwich branch also enjoyed great sales during movie premieres such as Transformers: Rise of the Beast and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which saw action figures and collectibles perform strongly.

“We are currently seeing what the future holds,” commented Steve.