About Build-a-Bear Workshop

Established in the UK in 1997, Build-A-Bear Workshop (BABW) are an interactive toy maker that invites guests of all ages to create their own customised stuffed animals through an exciting bear-making process that combines experience with purchase.

With 57 stores around the UK and over 900 employees, the growing company is a favourite amongst children and adults alike.

A token of appreciation is given to all associates who have made a difference through the company’s Atta Bear card programme, thanking staff for their hard work.

Within their first three months of employment, store managers attend Becoming A Bear - a one-day, interactive, in-depth course on the company’s core values.

BABW offer flexible working to staff as they believe it can increase employees motivation, promote work-life balance, reduce associate stress and improve performance and productivity.

What is it like to work for Build-a-Bear Workshop

My Manager

90% of staff agreed:

I feel that my manager talks openly and honestly with me

Career Tracks is the company’s in-house career progression programme, on which associates harness their key skills and competencies to become a successful leader. In addition to learning the technical and operational skills of their desired role, they also learn about their own development requirements.

90% of staff agreed:

I feel that my manager talks openly and honestly with me

Wellbeing

74% of staff disagreed:

My health is suffering because of my work

All associates are encouraged to become involved in planning fun events for their team, such as potluck dinners, birthday celebrations, or charitable activities, because the company believes that a fun and engaged environment with good work/life balance will contribute to their wellbeing.

74% of staff disagreed:

My health is suffering because of my work

My Team

96% of staff agreed:

My team is fun to work with

The Celebration Times is a weekly associate newsletter distributed from head office, used to celebrate associate internal promotions and guest feedback, and for associates to share pictures of fun and imaginative ways they have launched new products.

96% of staff agreed:

My team is fun to work with

Learn more about the 8 factors of workplace engagement here

Benefits:

Women

At least 40% of senior managers are women
Gym

Companies offering either free gym/ sports facilities or offering subsidised gym membership for all employees
Profit Related Payment

Companies offering profit related pay to all employees