First-Ever Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop Opening at Orlando’s ICON Park
Build-A-Bear is giving Pokémon collectors a new destination in Orlando with the opening of its first-ever Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop, one of three specialty shop experiences coming to the company’s new multi-level location at ICON Park. The new Build-A-Bear Workshop is scheduled to officially open Thursday, November 5, and will include dedicated spaces for Pokémon, Hello Kitty and Friends, and Build-A-Bear’s own Promise Pets line.
The Pokémon Workshop is being described as a first-of-its-kind specialty shop for Build-A-Bear. The space will use recognizable Pokémon imagery and bold visuals while offering exclusive product experiences, collectible plush, apparel and photo opportunities designed around the franchise. Build-A-Bear and The Pokémon Company International have worked together on plush releases for years, but the ICON Park location takes that relationship in a different direction by creating an entire dedicated Pokémon environment inside the store.
“Pokémon has always been about exploration, discovery, and the joy of connection, and this new Build-A-Bear experience at ICON Park will bring those elements to life,” said Amy Sachtleben from The Pokémon Company International. “We’re excited for our fans to step into a space designed just for Trainers, where they can celebrate their love of Pokémon through Build-A-Bear’s distinct make-your-own experience, while creating unforgettable moments.”
Pokémon will not be the only licensed brand receiving its own space. The Orlando location will also house the fourth Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop. That shop will feature a pink-themed environment with custom fixtures and Sanrio branding, along with a curated assortment of Hello Kitty and Friends plush that Build-A-Bear says will be available only at ICON Park. The location-specific assortment gives that part of the store an additional collectibles angle, particularly for fans looking for plush that will not be sold through the company’s other locations.
The third specialty experience is Promise Pets by Build-A-Bear Workshop, making its debut as a dedicated environment. Guests will be able to “adopt” plush pets through an interactive experience centered on pet care, storytelling and personalization.
All three concepts will be housed within Build-A-Bear’s new ICON Park location, which the company is positioning as a destination rather than a traditional retail store. Guests will still be able to take part in familiar Build-A-Bear activities, including stuffing, dressing, accessorizing and the company’s Heart Ceremony.
“ICON Park represents a defining moment for Build-A-Bear as we continue to evolve into a true destination brand,” said Chris Hurt, Chief Executive Officer of Build-A-Bear Workshop. “By bringing beloved franchises and original concepts together in one immersive environment, we’re creating new ways for guests to connect, personalize, and make lasting memories. This is the future of Build-A-Bear, where storytelling and emotional connection come to life in bigger, more meaningful ways.”
The first Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop opens with the new ICON Park location in Orlando on November 5. Build-A-Bear says additional details about the grand-opening celebration will be announced in the coming weeks.