Build-A-Bear Workshop (BABW) is making the most out of the current bear market with the unveiling of its very first collection of NFT bears and physical plush twins.

Through BABW’s collaboration with Sweet, a platform and marketplace for NFT programs and experiences, the multi-generational global brand has shared its plans for three phases of NFT collections as part of its 25th-anniversary celebration.

Launching tomorrow, October 4, the campaign begins with an auction for Build-A-Bear’s very first digital asset on the blockchain – featuring a one-of-one NFT with its matching physical Swarovski Crystals-encrusted stuffed bear. The auction winner will also attain a two-person trip to Build-A-Bear’s 25^th Anniversary Gala on October 22 at the company’s St. Louis headquarters.

Continuing the festivities, BABW will debut its second round of NFTs in early November with another auction for five limited edition silver gala-themed bears consisting of physical and digital pairs with unique accessories.

Rounding out its initial NFT efforts, 5,000 Generative Bear digital collectibles will be available for mint in December at a fixed cost. Each bear will have its own unique traits and personality, corresponding to the well-known Build-A-Bear experience fans adore today.

Build-A-Bear’s silver celebration continues!

Be on the lookout for something elegant, shiny & sparkly. Coming soon from @buildabear. pic.twitter.com/7LyQ8MRIR4

— Sweet (@sweet) September 27, 2022

All of Build-A-Bear’s NFTs will be minted on the Polygon blockchain, a carbon-neutral network driving crypto adoption to the masses through our favorite brands.

“We are thrilled to enter Web3 as we celebrate our silver anniversary which is not only an acknowledgment of the accomplishments over our first 25 years, but a look ahead to new ground-breaking opportunities for our company,” shared Sharon Price John, President, and CEO of BABW.

A Digital Transformation

With more than 500 interactive brick-and-mortar locations today, BABW is known to be an engaging and personalized retail experience since 1997.

Following innovation and technological advancements, BABW has expanded beyond just retail through multiple digital initiatives — such as the company’s eCommerce efforts, “Bear-Builder” and the “Bear Builder 3D Workshop” for an animated bear-building online experience. Committed to developing the company’s digital presence, buildabear.com was recognized as one of Newsweek’s Best Online Shops in their published 2022 Consumer Guide.

Bringing the plush bears to the blockchain will further signify BABW’s continued digital strategy and eCommerce transactions.

In 2004, BABW founded the Build-A-Bear Foundation, which has raised more than $22 million and 1.5 million plush friends for in-need charitable organizations around the world. Paying tribute to its dive into Web3, 10% of the Swarovski Crystal Bear NFT sale will be donated to Build-A-Bear Foundation.

Sharing BABW’s mission in a Web3-friendly way, the NFTs hope to empower and celebrate the heart of childhood, in a modern-day manner relevant to today’s trends and technologies.

“This announcement speaks to our future in a world that is increasingly about the physical blending with the digital. Every aspect of this multi-dimensional collection is designed to capture the appeal of our brand and the collectability of our furry friends,” John added.

Sweet has previously collaborated with a range of industries and businesses to bring officially licensed collectibles to the blockchain.

Focused on driving revenues through consumer engagement, Sweet has launched major NFT projects for Macy’s, Elton John, Old Navy, and sports organizations like the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Red Bull Racing.

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