Build-A-Bear Workshop is planning a multi-level retail-tainment experience that will open in the first half of 2026 at the Icon Park entertainment complex in Orlando, Fla.
The move is part of a multi-year strategic evolution and expansion of Build-A-Bear’s nearly 600-store footprint, particularly in tourist and hospitality destinations. Construction of the experience at Icon Park is slated to begin later this year under the vision of design firm Chute Gerdeman, which also designed the FAO Schwarz New York flagship, where Build-A-Bear has a shop-in-shop.
The new multi-level Build-A-Bear Workshop in Orlando will reimagine the company’s already engaging, destination-based retail concept with evolved, interactive and personalized elements. Plans also call for an “eye-catching and highly branded” facade to leverage the store’s positioning on the International Drive thoroughfare of Icon Park, which, in addition to being a tourist attraction in its own right, also boasts a close proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal’s Theme Parks and SeaWorld Orlando. The end result will be “the largest combination of experiential retail and entertainment at Icon Park,” according to Chris Jaskiewicz, President and CEO of Icon Park in a statement.
“The combination of a creative interpretation of Build-A-Bear’s famous ‘make your own’ teddy bear retail concept, situated in a major destination city, is lined up to be a must-visit attraction for our wide array of fans,” said Sharon Price John, CEO of Build-A-Bear in a statement. “From our core consumer base of children to our collectible market of teens and adults that represents 40% of our sales, we look forward to continuing to create memorable moments for our guests in this one-of-a-kind location.”
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