Toys et Cetera, a beloved Hyde Park toy store, is sold to Play Toys and Books as owner Nancy Stanek prepares for retirement after nearly five decades.
Hyde Park: After nearly 50 years, Toys et Cetera is changing hands. Nancy Stanek, the store’s owner, is retiring and selling to Play Toys and Books.
Stanek has run the shop since 1976, growing it from a small storefront to a cherished local spot. She previously sold another location to Play in 2020.
She chose Play because she trusts owner Ann Kienzle to uphold the same values about toys. Sales are happening now, with discounts on everything from Legos to board games.
In late March, Play will take over, refresh the store, and reopen in May. Kienzle is excited about the move, seeing Hyde Park as a perfect fit for her business.
Stanek has always believed in providing quality toys that support child development. She plans to step back completely after the sale, focusing on her home and community events.
Despite the challenges facing small businesses, Stanek feels confident that Play will continue her legacy. She’s proud of what she’s built and will keep an eye on the neighborhood.
As she prepares for retirement, she jokes about tackling projects around her house. She’s also committed to staying involved in local events she helped create.
With changes in the local business scene, Stanek knows it’s tough to run a retail shop these days. But she believes in the community’s support for specialty stores.
