Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys is a Canadian toy and children’s book retailer founded in 1984. It offers a wide range of products including educational toys, puzzles, arts & crafts, games, outdoor play, baby & preschool items, plush, dress-up, building sets, electronics for kids, and books. The product selection is curated with attention to developmental value, imaginative play, and quality. Customers can shop online across Canada or visit one of the many physical stores.

Retail Footprint & Customer Experience

There are around 48 stores across Canada coast-to-coast. Orders above CAD 50 ship free with some exclusions. The site supports filtering by categories, brands, availability, and store pickup. The “Perks” loyalty program rewards frequent shoppers. In-store features include gift wrapping, events for families (story time, crafts), and knowledgeable staff ("Play Experts") to assist customers.

Strengths and Things to Consider

Strengths include strong brand reputation for quality and selection, immersive in-store experience, and community engagement. The curated assortments tend to avoid overly fad-driven or low-quality goods, which many customers appreciate. Pricing is generally competitive for specialty retail, though not lowest possible — mass retailers or discount outlets may beat Mastermind on certain popular or commoditized items. For remote locations, shipping speed or cost may be less favorable. Some items may also sell out in-store faster than online, especially limited edition or exclusive ones.

Who It Suits Best

Families who value play that educates and inspires, shoppers who like to see and hold products in physical stores, gift-buyers looking for something special, and parents who want a mix of trusted brands and unique discovery. Less ideal for bargain hunters focused only on price, or those who live far from a Mastermind location and rely entirely on shipping.

Tips for Smart Shopping

Check store locator to find nearest location for pickup or browsing product before purchase. Use filters and the wishlist / “Perks” tools to monitor sales or restocks. For large or heavy items, compare shipping cost vs store pickup. Read instruction/details for electronic or STEM-oriented toys. Watch for seasonal events or exclusive offer windows. For books, note they might have promotions or bundle deals which make them more cost-effective.