Build-A-Bear Workshop is celebrating 25 years of hearts, hugs, and laughter this year. The plush brand and mall retailer has launched a year-long celebration to commemorate its memorable moments and milestones from more than the past two decades.
“Although we are a much different company than when we started in 1997, one thing that is the same is our commitment to add a little more heart to life,” says Sharon Price John, president and CEO, Build-A-Bear Workshop. “Even as the world has changed during the last 25 years, Build-A-Bear has remained a trusted and relevant brand with retail-tainment, personalization and ‘DIY’ being more on-trend now than when we first opened our doors.”
A silver celebration is taking over the Build-A-Bear stores along with new activities, promotions, and surprises this year. Build-A-Bear is also releasing an exclusive new line of furry friends, clothing, and other accessories for the silver takeover. The limited edition silver collection includes exclusive releases with sparkly silver detailing. Build-A-Bear is also opening its vault for the first time in the brand’s history. Inspired by the furry friends from the past 25 years, the new Vault Collection will feature limited edition collectibles each month throughout the year.
Guests can celebrate their special moments by posting on social media or uploading pictures to the Build-A-Bear gallery. Members of the Build-A-Bear Bonus Club will have access to member-exclusive offers and the first look at upcoming news and surprises.
The Build-A-Bear Foundation is hosting its first-ever gala at St. Louis Union Station to raise money for the renewed literacy platform and to honor Maxine Clark, the company founder. The Foundation is also coordinating with First Book, a nonprofit that addresses educational barriers for low-income kids, to fight poverty through educational equity. Build-A-Bear is also expanding its programs to provide opportunities and resources and to help its associates grow professionally and personally.
Build-A-Bear Workshop is inviting guests from around the world to join in on the furry fun and anniversary celebration throughout the year. The company will continue to reveal further details regarding collaborations with popular licensing partners, exclusive collections, and other surprises in the months ahead.
