Build-A-Bear, Sanrio partner on Hello Kitty-focused L.A. store
Experiential retailer Build-A-Bear Workshop is opening a "one-of-a-kind retail destination" at one of Los Angeles’ biggest malls.
The first-ever Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop will open on Nov. 15 at Westfield Century City. Designed in collaboration with Sanrio (the global lifestyle brand best known for pop culture icon Hello Kitty), the store will feature exclusive offerings inspired by Hello Kitty and her friends, giving fans of all ages a "unique and personalized experience."
Guests can look forward to a festive atmosphere with pink aprons, pink and white shopping bags, and customized pink birth certificates for their new plush friends.
[READ MORE: 2024 Top Retail Center Experiences: No. 3 Westfield Century City]
A grand opening event will take place at the new workshop featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Hello Kitty herself to mark the official launch. The first 50 guests will receive a special gift.
"The opening of the Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop is a meaningful moment for both of our brands," said Sharon Price John, president and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop. "This workshop is about creating a space where guests of all ages can connect with their favorite Sanrio characters in a fun and memorable way. It's a special experience that brings together the magic of childhood with the creativity of today's culture, and we're excited to share it with the West Los Angeles community."
The new workshop will feature a line of exclusive holiday designs from Sanrio. Guests can visit www.buildabear.com or head to their nearest participating Build-A-Bear Workshop to build their very own Red Bow Hello Kitty plush and accessorize it with a Hello Kitty Holiday Dress, an Evergreen Cinnamoroll with a holiday suit, a Candy Cane Kuromi with a festive dress, a mini Snowy Tiny Chum plush and more.
"Hello Kitty is a powerful source of comfort, nostalgia, and self-expression for her fans, and a partnership with Build-A-Bear is a natural fit for the Hello Kitty and Friends brand where guests can create their own custom plush to reflect their individuality," said Craig Takiguchi, chief operating officer of Sanrio, Inc. "During this milestone 50th anniversary year, we've been focused on offering collectible products and experiences while building connection points for fans, and this special workshop provides Hello Kitty and Build-A-Bear fans alike the ultimate opportunity to make memories with their loved ones while creating one-of-a-kind special friends."
Headquartered in St. Louis, Build-A-Bear Workshop Inc. operates more than 500 interactive brick-and-mortar experience locations through a variety of formats.
