How Build-a-Bear Invented A Bear Market
Founder Maxine Clark tells Fortune Small Business how she built Build-a-Bear Workshop into a $468 million business.
Early in my career, Stanley Goodman, who was then CEO of May, said something that has stuck with me: “Retailing is entertainment, and when customers have fun, they spend more money.” I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I knew it would involve children, because kids know how to enjoy themselves.
I may not have invented the idea of making a stuffed animal, but I did provide a venue for it. When I started Build-a-Bear Workshop, most malls had little to offer children. The stuffed-animal business was mostly seasonal, but I didn’t let the way others made or sold stuffed animals deter me. Our concept was based on customization and guest entertainment.
Adults told me my idea wouldn’t work. “Who wants to make their own stuffed animals?” they argued. But every kid said, “Where is it? When can I do it?”
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Photo by Build-a-Bear.
danec on November 5th, 2009 12:12 pm
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jimkukral on November 5th, 2009 2:18 pm
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RedHotFranchises on November 5th, 2009 8:08 pm
Entertainment is becoming an increasingly important element in many retail developments today, they are the booming trends despite the economic recession and will continue to do well during recovery.
U.S. retail sales of video games, consoles and accessories in 2008 grew 19% to $21.33 billion from $17.98 in 2007 and is expected to massively compound by the fall of 2009.
Play N Trade is one fastest-growing video game franchise worldwide.
For more info visit http://www.redhotfranchises.com/franchise-opportunity/Play_N_Trade_Video_Games
dawngilcrest on November 6th, 2009 7:33 am
RT @tweetmeme How Build-a-Bear Invented A Bear Market – Business Opportunities Weblog http://bit.ly/5EanR
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