Due to an unauthorized leak of licensed products on social media platforms, Build-A-Bear has fast-tracked its output of Halloween products.Â
Users on platforms like TikTok revealed a Build-a-Bear collaboration featuring Sanrio characters designed with autumnal Halloween theming; the collection is out today and includes Hello Kitty and Friends Characters Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, and Pompompurin with zombie, candy corn, and witchy details.
Gift sets featuring spooky clothes are also available. | Source: Build-A-Bear
Candy corn, bats, and zombie details give the Sanrio characters a seasonal design. | Source: Build-A-Bear
The Sanrio collection comes in the latter end of Hello Kitty's 50th anniversary. | Source: Build-A-Bear
Other products also expedited due to high consumer demand include Pumpkin Kitty, an orange and green plush that emerged from the Build-A-Bear Vault last year and quickly sold out. According to Build-A-Bear the waitlist for Pumpkin Kitty this year was 25,000 strong.Â
A giant version of Pumpkin Kitty is expected to arrive later within fall. | Source: Build-A-Bear
Pumpkin Kitty is currently available in the Mini Beans and make-your-own styles. | Source: Build-A-Bear
“For both kids and kids at heart, Build-A-Bear takes pride in being a place to celebrate holidays and special events in a truly memorable way,” says President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop Sharon Price John. “Halloween has traditionally been a highlight at our Workshops for families to create magical moments together and collectors to enjoy exclusive seasonal offerings. We believe the brand’s continued, and growing, popularity during this festive time reflects our commitment to providing joyful experiences and cherished moments for all ages.”
Halloween interest and spending amongst consumers is on the rise overall. Statista reports that participation in Halloween in 2023 was even higher than pre-pandemic levels.Â
To view Build-A-Bear’s viral Sanrio Halloween collection and its other early seasonal offerings, visit the company website.
