IPad Promotions Abound, But Device Remains Elusive

By Margaret Rock | Mon Apr 18, 2011 2:57 pm

Apple announced the iPad 2 will now be sold at Toys "R" Us stores, even though the supply is scarce and finding the device in stock remains a challenge.

Toys "R" Us began selling the iPad 2 today, but only at select stores, and their inventory has been selling quickly. A store in Orange County's Tustin, Calif., for example, sold out of the iPad 2 an hour after opening its doors. The situation is such that Toys "R" Us has posted a list on its website for stores with available inventory of the iPad 2.

The toy retailer is the latest addition to Apple's expanding distribution network. For the first time, Apple offered its iPad device beyond its signature Apple Stores, shipping inventory to other major retail chains that include Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart and RadioShack.

Those stores are suffering the same shortages that currently plague Toys "R" Us. Last week, Best Buy halted sales in order to shore up supply for a featured promotional mailing, but still sold out quickly. Best Buy stores in Chicago and Thousand Oaks, Calif. are only taking orders for the devices since they have none in stock.

And the situation isn't much better at Apple stores. The Manhattan Apple store reports it sells out its new stock on a daily basis.

Since the iPad 2 debuted this past March, it has been flying off shelves and distributors report insufficient inventory for customer demand. Damage to component factories resulting from Japan's earthquake and tsunami may be adding to delays.

Toys "R" Us will also carry iPad accessories, such as Smart Covers, VGA connectors and the camera connection kit.

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