On Friday, Toys “R” Us, Inc. filed a preliminary registration statement with the SEC for an initial public offering of common stock. Its goal is to raise $800 million, primarily to pay down debt. The number and price range for shares has not yet been set. Previously a public company, Toys “R” Us was taken private in 2005 for $6.6 billion.

Some interesting facts from the prospectus:

  • In fiscal year 2009, 39% of net revenue came from outside the US and 39% of sales were in the 4th quarter.
  • Video games and video game systems account for 10-15% of sales.
  • 2009 net sales were: 17% core toy, 16% entertainment, 31% juvenile, 22% learning, 13% seasonal, 1% other.
  • Future plans include continuing the juvenile integration strategy which combines the Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us merchandise lines for one-stop-shopping (only achieved at 12% of stores so far).
  • The company also plans to increase square footage 15% over the next several years, as well as increase “private label penetration” and “use of direct sourcing.”
  • In 2009, Toys “R” Us recognized $20 million of income from unredeemed gift cards and $602 million in online sales. Total sales were $13.6 billion.
  • Total indebtedness as of January 30, 2010 equaled $5.196 billion.
  • At the end of January, 30 of 91 temporary holiday stores remained open.