Surprise items going nuts at Big W

Surprising items are flying off the shelves at Big W as adults — rather than kids — storm the retailer’s huge annual toy sale.

Surprising items are flying off the shelves at Big W as adults — rather than kids — storm the retailer’s huge annual toy sale as a form of stress relief.

Big W’s Big Whopping Toy Sale, once called the Toy Mania sale, attracts huge crowds across the country each year with thousands stocking up on discounted gifts for loved ones.

This year’s sale kicked off on Big W’s website on Tuesday, though it won’t hit stores until June 15.

The Big Whopping Toy Sale will run for a month until July 12.

There’s a surprising trend at Big W’s annual toy sale. Picture: Brendan Radke

But this year, Big W confirmed a surprising market that’s causing a huge surge in toy sales as stock flies off the shelves.

The retailer said its sale is proving hugely popular among “kidults” — adults who love toys.

“Play isn’t just for kids, as kidults continue to drive industry growth, turning to play to de-stress and incorporate more fun into their daily lives,” a Big W spokesperson told news.com.au.

The kidults’ favourite toys are interactive games, with their favourite brands including LEGO, PlayStation and nostalgic arcade games.

They’ve been particularly attracted to the LEGO Star Wars Tie Bomber ($75, down from $95) and Fast & Furious 1:16 FF10 El Camino ($44, not on sale), the retailer said.

The retailer said adults as well as kids were making the most of the sale. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Big W also announced its five predicted bestsellers for the toy sale, which are as follows: Hot Wheels 1:24 Monster Trucks Assorted ($9, down from $20), Transformers Rise of The Beasts Smash Changers ($35, down from $70), Barbie Dreamhouse ($185, down from $259), Magic Mixies Crystal Ball Series 2 Crystal Ball ($50, down from $130) and Fisher Price DJ Bouncin’ Beats ($44, down from $89).

“This year, the Big Whopping Toy Sale has had an exciting refresh. We’ve got a brand-new name with great new deals and a number of exclusive additions to our ever-growing toy range,” said Big W’s chief toy buyer Christine Faulkner.

Big W's Chief Toy Buyer Christine Faulkner said this year’s sale has had an “exciting refresh”.

Also among the deals are the Nerf Fortnite B-AR Blaster ($37, down from $75),

Barbie Outdoor Playsets (on sale for $30, a discount of more than 50 per cent), the L. O. L Surprise Original Tot dolls ($10 down from $20).

For the littlest kids, Bluey’s Brisbane Bus Adventure Playset will be sold for $19.

Mums and dads were quick to share their excitement from the moment this year’s sale was announced, with many revealing their budget-conscious tips.

Barbie Outdoor Playsets are hitting shelves for just $30. Picture: Big W.

Transformers Rise of the Beasts Smash Changers ($34) are among Big W’s predicted bestsellers. Picture: Big W.

“I love this catalogue, it’s perfect for my boys to limit everything they would want to a more appropriate amount,” one mum said. “I just hand them the catalogue and a sharpie and let them get circling.”

“I’ve done the toy sale for the last few years and it’s life-changing not having to Christmas shop in December,” wrote a second.

“As a first time mum, I must say this is impressive,” commented a third.

Many swear by Big W’s lay-by option, which allows shoppers to pay off their purchases within 20 weeks, alleviating financial stress around the holidays.

“This is our lifesaver every year!” one dad wrote. “I buy gifts in bulk to last through November birthdays and Christmas, paying them off as I go. Easiest way to keep the present budget in check.”