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Build-A-Bear Workshop Chain of stores letting customers build their own teddy bears. Headquarters: 1954 Innerbelt Business Center Drive Saint Louis, MO 63114 Employees: 1,200 full-time, 5,700 part-time CEO: Maxine Clark Stock Symbol: BBW Website: http://www.buildabear.com Career Site Build-A-Bear Workshop operates a chain of interactive stores that lets children of all ages build customized stuffed animals. The company currently operates more than 370 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide, including company-owned stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and France, and franchise stores in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. There are 273 company-owned retail stores in the U.S. and 49 in Europe. Build-A-Bear Workshop offers a unique approach to the entertainment retail industry. The teddy bear theme is carried throughout the store with original teddy bear fixtures, murals and artwork. The store associates, known as master Bear Builder associates, share the experience with Guests at each phase of the bear-making process. There are typically between 30-35 varieties of stuffed animals including teddy bears, bunnies, dogs, kitties, a frog, or a pony as well as Beary limited edition collectibear friends. Build-A-Bear Workshop stuffed animals are very affordable, ranging in price from $10- $25 plus accessories including sounds and clothing which can add another $5-15 to the total price. The company opened its first store inside a Rainforest Cafe in 2007. In 2007, the company had net sales of $468.2 million, up 8% from the previous year. Net income was $22.5 million. The company is planning to open 20 stores this year, down from 39 in 2007. For 2007, franchisees opened 22 new stores and closed three stores, ending the year with 53 stores located in 15 countries. The Company currently has franchise agreements covering 21 countries and anticipates franchisees will open 15 to 20 new stores in 2008. History Build-a-Bear Workshop was founded by Maxine Clark and made its debut in the Saint Louis Galleria in October, 1997. It was founded as an interactive entertainment retail experience based on the enduring love and friendship that connects us all to stuffed animals, and especially to our teddy bears. Bearemy, the company's mascot, was born on August 21st, 1998 in St. Louis, MO. With the opening of its store in Sheffield, England, in the fall of 2003 and the addition of international stores in Japan, Denmark, Australia, South Korea and France, Build-A-Bear Workshop has become the global leader in the teddy bear business. In November 2004, the company opened two friends 2B made stores, the newest concept based on the doll-making experience. Benefits The company offers a great benefits package including medical and dental insurance, 401K savings plan, life insurance, vacation, and a fun, fast-paced work environment. Updated March 5, 2008