Build-A-Bear and Sanrio, the brand behind Hello Kitty, will expand their co-branded stores to two of the country’s biggest malls in early 2026: the American Dream mall in Rutherford, N.J. and Bloomington, Minn.’s Mall of America. The brands had opened the first Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop at LA’s Westfield Century City in November 2024.
Each Workshop immerses customers into the world of Hello Kitty, combining signature touches from both brands throughout, including pink shopping bags and aprons, custom Cub Condos and more. Shoppers choose their favorite character, take part in the iconic stuffing experience and Heart Ceremony and then can personalize their purchase with themed outfits, scents, sounds and accessories inspired by characters including Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi and My Melody.
“This partnership with Build-A-Bear brings our characters to life in a way only the Workshop experience can,” said Jill Koch, SVP of Brand Management and Marketing at Sanrio in a statement. “The success in Los Angeles proved how powerfully fans connect with this hands-on, heart-filled approach.”
“Bringing these Workshops to American Dream and Mall of America gives us the opportunity to welcome guests from around the world who travel to these iconic destinations throughout the year,” said Chris Hurt, COO of Build-A-Bear Workshop in a statement.
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In March 2025 Build-A-Bear announced it would open a multi-level “retailtainment” experience in the first half of 2026 at Orlando’s Icon Park.
