Build-A-Bear workshop was founded in 1997, and since then, over 300 stores have opened worldwide. This American company sells teddy bears and other stuffed animals. The company’s slogan is “Where Best Friends Are Made.”
Each animal that is built is given a name and birth certificate. Some even have special “hearts” placed inside them by the builder. Over 50 million stuffed animals were sold in the company’s first ten years.
In the winter of 2007, Build-A-Bear opened a virtual town online, “Build-A-Bearville”. Visitors to Bearville have a special code found on the birth certificate that allows them to play games and communicate with others on the site. Players can earn Bear Bills, which can be used to buy clothes and other items.
Besides the animals, the stores have hundreds of cute outfits and accessories. The outfits are well made and pricey. However, you can find pre-made Build a Bear teddy bears at incredible prices on eBay along with new and used outfits!