FurReal Friends is a division of the major toy company Hasbro - and is easily the biggest name in animatronic toy pets. Ever since the launch of the hugely-popular FurReal Cat toy in 2006, this brand has gone from strength-to-strength with the launch of many popular products including Biscuit My Lovin' Pup, Squawkers Macaw and Butterscotch Pony.
Recent advancements in affordable electronics and robotics is the key secret behind the success of FurReal toys. As well as being fully kitted out with voice-recognition software (which in the case of Biscuit means you can make him sit or lie down) many of FurReal's products have sensors which respond to touch. This instant feedback that FurReal Friends toys provide makes them a huge hit with children of all ages. They are also particularly popular with parents who sometimes see them as a good substitute for owning a real pet! Afterall, FurReal toys are unlikely to leave you with expensive vet bills!
It's going to be interesting to see what FurReal toys are launched next. Hasbro's showcase toy for 2008, Kota the Triceratops, was by far and wide one of the most elaborate and technologically advanced toys ever released - and despite its high price-tag, this animatronic dinosaur was one of the year's best sellers.
FurReal, WowWee and Zhu Zhu Pets are just some of the major brands sold by Electronic Pet Shop - a toy shop based in Stafford.
Specialising in the full range of Automoblox Cars.
Specialises in everything for Scalextric model motor racing.
A family run business selling ranges of toys and dressing-up clothes.