For today’s Q&A with a local business owner navigating the COVID-19 public health emergency and related restrictions, we hear from Nathan Shapiro of the New Canaan Toy Store. Here’s our exchange.
Puzzles at New Canaan Toy Store.
New Canaanite: What are New Canaan Toy Store’s hours of operation and services you are offering at this point in terms of ordering/delivery?
Nathan Shapiro: We are open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. We are offering curbside service and free same day home delivery. My sister Annie, our store manager, and I are staffing the store ourselves. We are helping customers over the phone during store hours, texting photos and even FaceTiming to get as close to an in-store experience as possible. To reach us outside of store hours, please email Annie at annie@thetoypostct.com.
LEGOs at New Canaan Toy Store.
How are you faring there? What has the community’s response been like?
We have been overwhelmed by the community support. Everyone has been unfailingly enthusiastic, which has really kept our spirits up. Because every transaction requires lots of interaction, Annie and I have gotten to know our customers even better than ever.
At this point, how would you gauge the ability of New Canaan Toy Store to outlast the public health emergency and related restrictions?
We are confident that we will weather the storm and optimistic about the future of New England’s oldest toy store.
Yard games at New Canaan Toy Store.
What are your most popular items?
In the age of coronavirus, puzzles have become an essential item. Games, LEGO, crafts and building toys that keep kids and adults engaged are popular.
What is your message to customers?
Reach out to us by phone or email so we can help you get what you need. Same day delivery Wednesday through Sunday. Email 24/7. And follow us Instagram and Facebook for updates and for the latest toys.