iFANN
    Last updated
    Build-A-Bear Workshop
    retail

    Build-A-Bear Workshop

    United States flagUnited States

    "The Stuff You Love"

    Founded 1997 St. Louis, Missouri, United States CEO: Chris Hurt
    Community

    About

    Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. is an American retailer headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that sells teddy bears, stuffed animals, and licensed character merchandise. Customers create and customize stuffed animals through an interactive process that allows them to select sounds, scents, clothing, and accessories for their chosen plush toy. Build-A-Bear Workshop is the largest chain to operate using this retail concept.

    The company's slogan was "Where Best Friends Are Made" from 1997 to 2013. In 2013, it adopted the slogan "The Most Fun You'll Ever Make", which remained in use until a brand refresh in 2024 introduced "The Stuff You Love".

    In March 2026, Chris Hurt was named chief executive officer following the announced retirement of Sharon Price John.

    Products & Sub-brands

    Teddy bears and stuffed animalsMini Beans® collectible plushLicensed character merchandiseClothing and accessories for plushSounds and scents for plushBirthday party packagesCorporate and group eventsE-commerce and mobile app experiences

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns Build-A-Bear Workshop?
    Build-A-Bear Workshop is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BBW, meaning it is owned by its shareholders rather than a single individual or private parent company. The company was founded by Maxine Clark in 1997, and its largest institutional shareholders include major investment firms and mutual funds.
    Who is the CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop?
    Chris Hurt was named Chief Executive Officer of Build-A-Bear Workshop in March 2026, succeeding Sharon Price John, who retired after serving as CEO since 2013. Hurt previously served in senior leadership roles within the company, and his appointment marks a new chapter in the company's strategic direction.
    How much is Build-A-Bear Workshop worth?
    Build-A-Bear Workshop's market capitalization fluctuates with its stock price, which is publicly traded on the NYSE. As a mid-cap retail company with consistent profitability and strong brand recognition, its valuation typically ranges in the hundreds of millions to over a billion dollars, depending on market conditions and recent financial performance.
    Build-A-Bear Workshop vs. Gund: which is better?
    Build-A-Bear Workshop offers an interactive, customizable experience where customers create their own stuffed animals, while Gund is a traditional plush manufacturer known for high-quality, pre-made teddy bears and stuffed animals. Build-A-Bear is better for those seeking a personalized, experiential gift, while Gund is preferred for ready-made, premium plush toys with a focus on craftsmanship.
    Is Build-A-Bear Workshop still in business?
    Yes, Build-A-Bear Workshop is very much still in business and operating successfully. The company continues to operate hundreds of stores globally, maintains a robust e-commerce platform, and has expanded its product lines and licensed partnerships, with recent leadership changes signaling continued investment in growth and innovation.

    Keywords

    Build-A-Bear WorkshopBuild-A-Bearstuffed animalsteddy bearsmake your owncustom plushinteractive retailMaxine ClarkSt. LouisBBW

    Sources

    WikipediaOfficial WebsiteFacebook PageInstagram ProfileAmazon Store

    Company Info

    Founded
    1997
    Founder
    Maxine Clark
    CEO
    Chris Hurt
    Headquarters
    St. Louis, Missouri, United States
    Industry
    retail
    Stock Ticker
    NYSE: BBW

    Official Website

    www.buildabear.com/

    Links

    Join the community

    fans discussing