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Toys R Us founder dies days after company shutdown

Photo credit: Getty
Photo credit: Getty

From Digital Spy

In more sad news for Toys R Us, the toy chain's founder, Charles Lazarus, has passed away.

The company has confirmed that Lazarus died on Thursday (March 22) at the age of 94.

Lazarus founded the brand in 1948, having predicted that the post-war baby boom would soon result in a demand for toys and baby products.

Photo credit: Getty
Photo credit: Getty

He opened his first Toys R Us store in 1957 and remained CEO of the company until 1994.

"There have been many sad moments for Toys R Us in recent weeks, and none more heartbreaking than today's news about the passing of our beloved founder," the company said in a statement.

"He visited us in New Jersey just last year, and we will forever be grateful for his positive energy, passion for the customer and love for children everywhere.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Charles' family and loved ones."

After facing troubles in the US, it was recently announced that all Toys R Us stores in the UK are closing down after administrators failed to find a buyer.

The chain employs over 3,000 people in the UK within its stores and head office.

Jimmy Kimmel recently addressed the Toys R Us situation on Jimmy Kimmel Live, introducing a drunk 'Geoffrey the Giraffe' mascot, just in case you need a bit of cheering up.


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