Build-A-Bear Looks Overseas

ST. LOUIS-Build-A-Bear Workshop keeps growing, in the United States and overseas. The company, operator of 170 stores, plans to open 25 to 30 units in the North America this year and expects franchisees to open 15 to 20 internationally.

The chain, which allows children to customize their own stuffed bears, has 12 international units in Australia, Denmark, England, Japan and South Korea. This year it has plans to enter France and Taiwan. Overall, the company has the potential to open 350 to 400 stores internationally, said Barry Erdos, president and COO of Build-A-Bear, yesterday during an investment presentation.

In the United States, the company could open a total of 350 stores, he said. Build-A-Bears, a majority of which are currently in malls, are starting to move in other types of real estate developments. Some non-traditional venues where stores might open include cruise ships, sports venues and theme parks. The company is also opening its New York City flagship store on Fifth Avenue this year.