Barbie Outsells Bratz Dolls But Only Narrowly

This was a contentious week for Mattel,Inc. The maker of the Barbie doll toys announced it was suing the maker of the Bratz toys, a growing competitor for stealing Mattel’s ideas. We asked 27 toy store respondents which toy is its hottest item? Are you currently sold-out of any hot item? Which is your best selling Barbie, and between the Bratz and Barbie, which sells best? 30% of those interviewed said that action figures are selling like hot cakes, while 11% said the Nintendo wii sells best. (Other items mentioned were video games, Elmo live , and anything to do with Hannah Montana.) 30% of those interviewed said they were selling out of Nintendo wii or some video games. 19 people or 70% however, said they were selling out of anything at all. And 52% contended that Barbie remains the best selling and superior doll. (Hispanic Barbie, Barbie Splash and Tooth Fairy Barbie were among those mentioned). 41% insist Bratz is best.

The House Blend Sells Poorly at Peet's Coffee

Tickermine revisited Peet’s Coffee stores this week. 23 stores were approached and respondents were asked which coffee drinks are selling best? Which coffee drinks does the respondent order themselves? And which percentage of sales were plain coffee alone vs. specialty drinks? We found that Lattes remain the best selling drinks, according to 39% of those interviewed. The Arabian Mocha Java drink was cited by 17% and the same amount mentioned Freddos. Only 9% cited House blend coffee as their best seller. 52% of those polled said that 10 to 20% of their customers order plain coffee. 22 per cent said that less than 10% of their customers order plain coffee drinks, while 26% said greater than 20% of their customers do this. And 49% reported that they themselves order plain drip coffee. 39% say they order a specialty drink and 13%, surprisingly, reported they won't touch the stuff with a pole.

57% of Cost Plus Locations See Business as Flat or Down Versus Last Year

Cost Plus Inc., the retailer, was profiled this week. 28 store locations around the country were approached and respondents were asked which items sell best? How is business compared to this time last year? What is your busiest time of year? And are most of your customers buying goods or shopping for themselves? We found that 75% of those interviewed were shopping for themselves and only 25% were shopping for gifts. 25% said business was slower from a year ago, 32% said it was the same and 39% said sales were busier. 32% felt that winter was a busier month, while 50% thought it was summer, 14% said it was fall. Only 4% said that spring time kept them the busiest. And only two items were mentioned as best sellers: Outdoor furniture were cited by 29% and 14% said that it was wine.