In a country where the idea of a dedicated toy store was once a novelty, Delightful Toyshop, led by the visionary Mrs. Omotola Lawson, has carved a remarkable path in the Nigerian toy industry. Celebrating a decade of success in 2019, this unique toy retailer has become a beacon of innovation and quality in the hearts of children and parents across Lagos, Nigeria, and beyond.
The journey of Delightful Toyshop began with a simple desire to give their daughter the best 2nd birthday present. Mrs. Lawson and her husband embarked on a mission to find the perfect toy for their little one, only to discover that Lagos lacked a dedicated toy store. Their pursuit revealed a significant gap in the market, and they decided to fill it.
Mrs. Lawson reflected on the inception of Delightful Toyshop, saying, “It all started with the challenge of finding the right toy for our daughter. We realized that there was a gap in the Nigerian market, and it was an opportunity we couldn’t ignore.”
With a background in banking, Mrs. Lawson was well-equipped to conduct thorough market research. She engaged professional market research services to confirm her discoveries independently, and the results reaffirmed the need for a dedicated toy store in Lagos. It was clear that they could save other parents from the ordeal they had experienced.
Mrs. Lawson shared, “Our journey started with a vision to provide Nigerian parents with a one-stop destination for all manners of toys and learning aids. We wanted to create a place where they could find the best for their children without the hassle.”
Delightful Toyshop commenced its journey as an online platform, offering an array of toys and learning materials. They quickly gained traction, attracting parents looking for a convenient and reliable source for quality toys. As the demand grew, Mrs. Lawson recognized that some parents preferred the opportunity to touch and feel the toys before making a purchase.
To address this need, the first Delightful Toyshop walk-in outlet was established in Ikeja, Lagos. It became an instant hit, providing a tangible and immersive experience for parents and children. This location soon outgrew its space due to the store’s popularity, leading to the opening of a more spacious outlet in Ilupeju.
Becoming the Distributor of MGA Entertainment in Nigeria
While at Ilupeju, Delightful Toyshop achieved a milestone by becoming the distributor of MGA Entertainment products in Nigeria. This collaboration brought renowned products like L.O.L. Surprise! into the hands of Nigerian children. Mrs. Lawson expressed her excitement about this achievement, stating, “Our partnership with MGA Entertainment was a game-changer. It allowed us to offer our customers some of the most beloved and sought-after toys globally.”
In 2015, Delightful Toyshop opened its second outlet in Lagos, this time in the bustling neighborhood of Lekki. This expansion allowed them to reach a broader audience and cater to more families in the city. The commitment to providing quality products and excellent service remained at the core of their operations.
and then