What toy retailer introduced the mascot "Geoffrey the Giraffe" in 1960?

The story behind the answer

Toys "R" Us introduced Geoffrey the Giraffe as its signature mascot. Geoffrey became one of the most recognizable symbols in American retail, appearing in store signs, television commercials, catalogs, toys, and other promotional material aimed at children and families.

The mascot's history predates the final Toys "R" Us identity. Geoffrey evolved from an earlier giraffe character associated with Children's Bargain Town, a retail business operated by founder Charles Lazarus. As the company developed into Toys "R" Us, the character's name, design, and role were refined until Geoffrey represented the brand nationwide.

Some references date Geoffrey's formal introduction to 1965 rather than 1960, so the date in the question is imprecise. That does not change the retailer being asked for: Toys "R" Us is the canonical answer. Geoffrey was later given a family of related characters and remained central to the brand through its original expansion, 2018 U.S. closures, and later revival efforts.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

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