The Murjani Group made a name for itself in 1976 when the company launched Gloria Vanderbilt in the country. In 1984, Murjani introduced the country to Tommy Hilfiger. The company is currently evaluating sites for Build-A-Bear Workshop stores and anticipates opening the first store later this year.

The agreement with India follows the company's announcement last week to buy UK-based competitor the Bear Factory for $41.4 million. The deal gives the company 28 stores in the UK, one in Ireland and 13 franchised units throughout Europe and the Middle East.

Build-A-Bear Workshop franchisees opened 18 new stores in 2005 and company execs expect another 20 new stores to open in 2006. International countries in which Build-A-Bear is now located include Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, India, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, the Republic of China (Taiwan), South Korea, Sweden, Thailand and the United Kingdom.