Over and above the fact that these robotic hamsters are small, furry and cute, children really love the interactivity. The five hamsters – Mr. Squiggles, Pipsqueak, Chunk, Patches and Num Nums – have a grand total of forty different sounds which they produce when given the correct external stimulus. If they enter into the bathroom of their hamster habitat for example, they make tooth brushing noises. If they enter their hamster bedroom then they make snoring sounds.

However, many retailers have quite deliberately set stock levels of toys in general at relatively low volumes this year. This is partly due to the current economic climate and partly due to the fact that stock levels were too high last year. Many retailers had to offer large discounts just to clear their shelves.

It’s easy to see why this has been done – but based upon the evidence to date, the retailers may have misguessed the mood of customers. The most popular toys like the Zhu Zhu pets and Mattel’s Mindflex game are flying off the shelves. Demand is way higher than supply and it’s becoming very hard to find these toys in the shops. This problem is only going to get worse in the run up to Christmas.

Having realised their misjudgement, lots of retailers are now desperately seeking new stock. However, most toys are manufactured in Asia these days. That means that delivery will generally include a sea voyage of about four weeks. Increasing stock levels before Christmas may prove to be difficult.

As a consequence of the imbalance between supply and demand, it is now possible to find Zhu Zhu hamsters on eBay for over $ 150. That’s way above the recommended retail price – and these prices could rise even further as we approach Christmas. It does seem like a high price to pay for a toy which, although it is the latest craze, is quite likely to be out of fashion in just a few short months.

If you don’t feel that the high prices for the latest trend are value for money, then you might want to think about some more traditional gifts this year. Classic traditional toys such as Lego, Scrabble, Monopoly and Hornby Dublo train sets are classics for a reason. They are an ever popular addition to any kid’s toy box and they will still be in use and giving pleasure long after this year’s fad is forgotten.