For teddy bear lovers looking for something unique, Build-A-Bear Workshop could be their dream come true, according to Central Department Store. The retail group yesterday opened its first do-it-yourself teddy bear shop, a concept imported from the United States, at Central Chidlom yesterday.
”Teddy bear shops normally only sell, but our store has 23 models, 300 accessories and furry fashions for all occasions for customers dress up their own teddy bear,” said Yuwadee Chirathivat Bhicharnchitr, the president of Central Department Store.
All the raw materials for the service are being imported from the Build-A-Bear Workshop headquarters in the US. However, with the green light from America, some clothes and accessories may be sourced locally in the future.
Mrs Yuwadee said the enterprise was expected to generate 10 million baht of sales by the end of this year and grow by at least 8% per year.
Central has invested 20 million baht in its first shop at Central Chidlom at 120 square metres. It plans to open a bigger outlet at Zen Department Store.
”The company has tried very hard over the past year to sign the master franchisee contract with the [Build-A-Bear] headquarters in the US,” she said.
The 2005 contract was signed on condition at least 10 stores were opened by Central over the next 10 years.
roisin mccabe on February 29th, 2008 at 6:31 am
we are interested in a franchise in rockingham west austraila in build a bear if avaible thanks roisin