Build-A-Bear unveils new high-tech store design in six markets

St. Louis -- Build-A-Bear Workshop announced Tuesday that it is introducing a newly imagined store design in six markets across the U.S. in 2012. 

The new store design, which has been over two years in the making, merges the Build-A-Bear Workshop hands-on bear-making process with technology to enhance the customer experience.

“I am very excited about the enhanced features that will allow us to continue to lead in the interactive retail space,” said Maxine Clark, founder and chief executive bear of Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Among the locations to feature the new store design are:

• West County Center in St. Louis;
• Stoneridge Shopping Center in Pleasanton, Calif.;
• Annapolis Shopping Mall in Annapolis, Md.;
• The Somerset Collection in Troy, Mich.;
• Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax, Va.; and
• Castleton Square Mall in Indianapolis.

According to Clark, the chain collaborated with its Cub Advisors – a group of children – and their mothers to perfect the working model of the store design. “Our new stores will maintain the fun, memory-making and personal interaction for which we are known while adding new sensory and technological features,” she said.

Build-A-Bear Workshop will announce details and store opening dates this fall.