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Build-A-Bear Workshop

Chain of stores letting customers build their own teddy bears.

Headquarters:
1954 Innerbelt Business Center Drive
Saint Louis, MO 63114
Employees: 1,200 full-time, 4,800 part-time
CEO: Maxine Clark
Stock Symbol: BBW

Website: http://www.buildabear.com

Career Site

Build-A-Bear Workshop operates a chain of interactive stores that lets children of all ages build customized stuffed animals.

The company currently operates more than 400 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide, including company-owned stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and France, and franchise stores in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa.

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers a unique approach to the entertainment retail industry. The teddy bear theme is carried throughout the store with original teddy bear fixtures, murals and artwork. The store associates, known as master Bear Builder associates, share the experience with Guests at each phase of the bear-making process.

There are typically between 30-35 varieties of stuffed animals including teddy bears, bunnies, dogs, kitties, a frog, or a pony as well as Beary limited edition collectibear friends. Build-A-Bear Workshop stuffed animals are very affordable, ranging in price from $10- $25 plus accessories including sounds and clothing which can add another $5-15 to the total price.

The company opened its first store inside a Rainforest Cafe in 2007.

In 2008, the company had net sales of $467.9 million. Net income was $4.5 million.

History

Build-a-Bear Workshop was founded by Maxine Clark and made its debut in the Saint Louis Galleria in October, 1997. It was founded as an interactive entertainment retail experience based on the enduring love and friendship that connects us all to stuffed animals, and especially to our teddy bears.

Bearemy, the company's mascot, was born on August 21st, 1998 in St. Louis, MO.

With the opening of its store in Sheffield, England, in the fall of 2003 and the addition of international stores in Japan, Denmark, Australia, South Korea and France, Build-A-Bear Workshop has become the global leader in the teddy bear business. In November 2004, the company opened two friends 2B made stores, the newest concept based on the doll-making experience.

Benefits

The company offers a great benefits package including medical and dental insurance, 401K savings plan, life insurance, paid time off (including birthdays), and a fun, fast-paced work environment.

Updated January 16, 2010