Build-A-Bear Workshop 3Q Profit Up

St. Louis, Build-A-Bear Workshop’s net income rose to $3 million in the third quarter, ended Sept. 29, up from $2.7 million during the same period in 2006.

Total revenue for the third quarter increased 8.2% to $109.8 million, compared to $101.5 million in the prior year. North American same-store sales fell 10.1%.

Build-A-Bear's European operations cut down its losses to $500,000 from a loss of $2.1 million in third quarter 2006.

The company opened its first stores in France during the third quarter, giving it a total of 45 stores in the United Kingdom, Ireland and France. It also opened 12 stores in North America.

"While the current economic environment is challenging for the consumer, our profit performance underscores the fundamental strength of our store model and the store experience we provide to our guests," said Maxine Clark, chairman and CEO, in a statement.