Buildabear Reviews

Voted Terrible (2/5)

333 Votes

48 Reviews

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TrustScore 2 out of 5

In the Toy Store category

 

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77% users rated Terrible
4% users rated Poor
8% users rated Average
2% users rated Very Good
8% users rated Excellent
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M matthew morrison
TrustScore 3 out of 5 70 days ago

Unforgettable Xmas Disappointment: A Heartbreaking Build-A-Bear Review

I had the most disheartening experience with buildabear.co.uk recently, and I feel compelled to share my story. Prior to Christmas, I purchased a toy from their website, only to discover that the voice feature was malfunctioning. After trying to resolve the issue by reaching out for support three times, I was hung up on twice and informed that since the toy was out of stock, they were unable to offer a replacement. My only options were to keep the defective teddy or return it for a refund. Devastated as it was the exact toy my child had wished for, I chose to keep it despite the malfunctioning voice feature. Unfortunately, it took an excruciatingly long time for the company to respond, and even then, my complaint was closed without a resolution. As a loyal customer who has purchased at least two teddies annually over the years, this experience has shattered my trust in the brand. I fervently wish that they face the consequences of their actions, for it is solely their fault for selling pricey £50 teddies that do not function as promised. I sincerely hope that my testimonial serves as a warning for others and prompts Build-A-Bear to improve their customer service and product quality. No one should have to endure the disappointment and frustration that I have faced.
M matthew morrison
TrustScore 3 out of 5 70 days ago

Unforgettable Experience at Build-A-Bear: A Heartfelt Review

As a loyal customer of Build-A-Bear for years, I recently encountered a disappointing situation that compelled me to share my experience. Prior to Christmas, I purchased a special toy for my child, eagerly anticipating their joy. However, upon receiving the toy, I discovered that the voice feature was not functioning as promised. After multiple attempts to reach customer service, I was met with frustration as my calls were disconnected twice. When I finally connected with a representative, I was informed that the toy was out of stock and could not be replaced. The only options presented to me were to keep the faulty toy or return it for a refund. Despite the setback, I chose to keep the toy as it held sentimental value to my child. The prolonged wait for a resolution was disheartening, especially when Build-A-Bear closed the complaint without reaching a satisfactory conclusion. This experience left me deeply disappointed after years of positive interactions with the brand. As someone who has regularly purchased at least two teddy bears annually, this incident has made me reconsider my loyalty. The high price point of the toy, coupled with its malfunction, left me questioning the company's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. I sincerely hope that Build-A-Bear addresses these shortcomings and prioritizes the experiences of their customers. The memories created through their products should be cherished, not marred by technical issues and unsatisfactory resolutions. For a brand built on creating moments of joy, this instance was a stark departure from the magic and delight I have come to associate with Build-A-Bear. In conclusion, my hope is for Build-A-Bear to reflect on their practices and uphold the standards that have endeared them to many families. May this feedback serve as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that every purchase brings happiness and fulfillment to their valued customers.
L LeeLee Sheward
TrustScore 3 out of 5 76 days ago

Unforgettable Experience at Build-A-Bear!

I recently had the most unforgettable experience at Build-A-Bear. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the entire process a joy. Despite some issues with vouchers, the employees went above and beyond to ensure that my visit was exceptional. I was amazed by their dedication and willingness to make things right. While there may have been some hiccups with the vouchers, the outstanding service more than made up for it. I can't wait to return to Build-A-Bear for future purchases, knowing that I'll be met with exceptional customer care each time. Highly recommended!
L LeeLee Sheward
76 days ago

Embracing the Magic at Build-A-Bear: A Heartfelt Experience

As a loyal customer of Build-A-Bear, I must share my remarkable journey with this enchanting brand. Contrary to a previous review, my encounters at buildabear.co.uk have been nothing short of magical. I have delved into their stores, filled with cuddly creations and heartwarming experiences that left me spellbound. The staff at Build-A-Bear? Simply stellar. Their genuine enthusiasm and dedication to creating special memories for each customer shine through in every interaction. Not once did I encounter anything less than exceptional service and care. The smiling faces and willingness to go above and beyond truly make Build-A-Bear a standout in the world of personalized gifts. Moreover, the vouchers and certificates provided added an extra layer of joy to my purchases. The seamless process and attention to detail demonstrated their commitment to customer satisfaction. I felt valued and appreciated, knowing that my experience was paramount to them. In a world where integrity and honesty sometimes seem scarce, Build-A-Bear stood out as a beacon of trustworthiness. Their transparency in transactions and eagerness to address any concerns filled me with confidence. I knew that my investment was not just in a product but in a brand that values honesty and ensures customer delight. I urge everyone seeking a magical experience to embrace Build-A-Bear. Let their furry friends and heartwarming ethos captivate you, just as they have captivated me. My journeys to their stores have left me with cherished memories and a desire to return time and time again. Thank you, Build-A-Bear, for filling my world with joy and magic.
R Rhian
79 days ago

Exceptional Bears, Frustrating Experience: A Candid Review of buildabear.co.uk

When I think of buildabear.co.uk, the first thing that comes to mind is the sheer lovability of their bears. Their wide range of adorable creations is truly a delight for any bear enthusiast. However, as much as I adore their products, I can't help but feel disheartened by the subpar website experience and the frustrating customer service. Let's start with the website— it's riddled with glitches and often feels like a maze to navigate. It's a shame that such charming products are housed in a digital space that struggles to provide a seamless experience. As for the customer service, it's disappointing to encounter responses that feel generic and disconnected from the actual issue at hand. It's clear that there's a need for more attentive and empathetic human support, as opposed to automated or indifferent replies. My most disheartening experience was with an order issue. Despite my prompt attempt to cancel an order, I found myself faced with inflexible policies and unhelpful responses. The lack of willingness to accommodate customer needs, especially when the fault lay with the company, left me feeling unheard and undervalued. Despite my deep affection for the Build-A-Bear products, the overall experience has left me contemplating whether they truly deserve my continued patronage. As much as I desire to welcome more bears into my life, the current state of customer service leaves much to be desired. In conclusion, I truly hope to see improvements in the future, as I believe that Build-A-Bear has the potential to not only capture hearts with their products but also with a more thoughtful and customer-centric approach. As the Sanrio bears make their debut, I sincerely hope for a positive shift in the customer experience, and I eagerly await the opportunity to once again wholeheartedly support this beloved brand.
R Rhian
79 days ago

Unbearably Lovely Bears with a Catch

I recently had the pleasure of purchasing bears from buildabear.co.uk, and I must say, the bears are truly lovely. However, the overall online experience left much to be desired. The website is riddled with glitches, making it an absolute shambles to navigate. In addition, the customer service provided seemed robotic, as they often failed to grasp the specifics of my issues and responded with generic, irrelevant replies. The effort to contact customer service only to receive impersonal and unhelpful responses was truly disappointing. Furthermore, I encountered a nightmare when trying to rectify an order issue. Despite my prompt attempt to cancel, I was met with refusal and the subsequent shipment of the order, with no regard for my concerns. The lack of flexibility and understanding in this situation was disheartening. While I have a deep affection for the bears and a desire to continue adding to my collection, the subpar customer service experience has left me questioning my loyalty. It's truly a shame, as the potential for an exceptional customer experience is evident. Unless significant improvements are made, I may have to reconsider my future purchases.
A Andreia
85 days ago

Delighted with Quick Delivery and Perfect Plush – A Sceptic Turned Happy Shopper

I recently had the pleasure of purchasing a cinnamon roll plush from buildabear.co.uk and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. Despite initial reservations due to some mixed reviews, the quick delivery and accuracy of my order truly impressed me. My little niece's sheer delight upon receiving her perfect cinnamon roll plush made my day. I had been on the hunt for this specific item, and to my surprise, buildabear.co.uk was the only place where I could find it. Despite my initial skepticism, the quality of the product and the joy it brought to my niece have made me a happy and satisfied customer. I will definitely be returning for future purchases. Thank you, buildabear.co.uk, for turning this sceptic into a loyal and delighted shopper. I highly recommend their services to anyone in search of genuine products and efficient delivery.
A Andreia
85 days ago

Unforgettable Delight: A Cinnamon Roll of Joy

I cannot contain my joy as I share my experience with Build-A-Bear.co.uk. The moment I received my order, I was overwhelmed with happiness. The delivery was surprisingly quick, and the cinnamon roll plush I ordered was beyond perfect. Witnessing the sheer delight on my little niece's face was priceless. Despite initial skepticism influenced by some reviews, I took the plunge and it was totally worth it. I had been tirelessly searching for the cinnamon roll plush everywhere, and Build-A-Bear was my last hope. Today, I can proudly say that I made the right choice. I will undoubtedly return for future purchases, and I encourage others to do the same. Thank you, Build-A-Bear, for making this experience unforgettable.
A Aiden m
93 days ago

Magical Memories Built to Last

I can't recommend buildabear.co.uk enough for creating magical memories with my little ones. I opted for the voice recorded bears, and it was an instant hit with my kids. However, after a few attempts, the voice recording feature stopped working. Despite feeling disappointed, the exceptional customer service team promptly resolved the issue, restoring the joy and excitement for my children. The smiles on their faces and the cherished moments we've shared with these bears have truly made it a worthwhile experience. Thank you, buildabear.co.uk, for helping us create lasting memories.
A Aiden m
93 days ago

Transformed My Memories: A Heartfelt Review of Build-A-Bear

As a passionate collector of special memorabilia, I turned to Build-A-Bear to create unique keepsakes for my loved ones. Initially, I opted to personalize my furry friends with voice recordings, aiming to infuse them with a touch of personal connection. However, my experience took an unexpected turn when the voice recordings ceased to function after just a few uses. Despite this initial setback, the exceptional customer service team at Build-A-Bear gracefully stepped in to rectify the situation. Their empathetic approach and prompt resolution not only fixed the technical glitch but also restored my faith in the brand. The seamless support I received transformed what could have been a disappointing experience into a heartwarming journey. Build-A-Bear's dedication to customer satisfaction shone through brightly, showcasing a genuine commitment to turning moments into cherished memories. The personalized touch and attention to detail in their products remained unparalleled, making each creation truly one-of-a-kind. In retrospect, what began as a minor setback evolved into a testament to Build-A-Bear's unwavering commitment to their customers. Through their proactive efforts and genuine care, they not only salvaged my experience but also left a lasting impression on me. I am grateful for their dedication to ensuring that every bear embodies not just a voice but a story, a memory, and a piece of the heart.
S Shawni Harrison
107 days ago

Exceeding Expectations: A Remarkable Journey with Build-A-Bear

I am thrilled to share my recent experience with buildabear.co.uk that surpassed all my expectations. After placing an order for two Pokémon bundles on a Saturday morning, I anticipated receiving my delivery post-Christmas. However, to my pleasant surprise, the order was swiftly processed, shipped, and delivered within a few days. The exceptional speed of service truly amazed me. From the seamless online ordering process to the prompt delivery, Build-A-Bear demonstrated unparalleled efficiency and dedication to customer satisfaction. I was not only impressed by the quick turnaround but also by the quality of the products received. Thank you, Build-A-Bear, for going above and beyond to ensure a seamless and delightful shopping experience. Your commitment to excellence has won me over as a loyal customer, and I look forward to continued interactions with your brand.
K Karen Melia
113 days ago

Unforgettable Experience at Build-A-Bear Liverpool One

I recently visited the Build-A-Bear Workshop in Liverpool One with the intention of purchasing a £30 gift voucher. To my delight, there was an offer to buy a £10 gift voucher for just £5, and I decided to take advantage of it. However, my excitement quickly turned to disappointment when I discovered that I had been charged the full amount for the gift card on my receipt. The situation escalated when the staff members were unable to rectify the error, and I ended up being charged twice for the voucher. Despite their assurances, the issue was not resolved, and I found myself facing a frustrating lack of knowledge regarding refunds, both from the initial employee and even the district manager. Although I was promised a follow-up call to address the problem, weeks went by without any communication or refund. This experience left me deeply disappointed, and I cannot help but feel dismayed by the lack of basic operational knowledge when it comes to refunds. It is truly disheartening to encounter such difficulties in a store, especially one that is renowned for creating magical experiences. As a result, I am left with no choice but to refrain from further patronage of Build-A-Bear Workshop. It is my hope that constructive feedback will help them improve their customer service and operational efficiency in the future.
K Karen Melia
113 days ago

A Disappointing Experience at Build-A-Bear Liverpool One

I can't believe the level of incompetence I experienced at the Build-A-Bear store in Liverpool One. I went in with the intention of purchasing a £30 gift voucher and taking advantage of the buy £10 get £5 off offer. However, my excitement quickly turned to frustration when I realized I had been charged the full amount for the gift card despite adding the discounted voucher to my purchase. The staff seemed clueless about how to rectify the situation, and after involving the district manager, I was left empty-handed and out of pocket. To make matters worse, when I followed up on the issue, I was met with a disappointing lack of urgency and professionalism. It's been two weeks, and I'm still waiting for a resolution and refund that I was promised. This entire experience has been nothing short of a letdown, and it's safe to say that I won't be returning to Build-A-Bear anytime soon. It's truly astonishing that a supposedly reputable store can't even handle something as basic as processing a refund. Disgraceful is an understatement.
K Kate Simmons
125 days ago

An Honest Account of Frustrating Customer Service at buildabear.co.uk

I want to share my experience with buildabear.co.uk, and unfortunately, it's not a positive one. The online customer service and ordering process left me incredibly frustrated. It took a week, three phone calls, and multiple emails just to place an order online. The most frustrating part was that the website only worked when I didn't use the gift card I had purchased in-store. Despite reaching out to "Guest Services" for help, my attempts were completely ignored. To make matters worse, when I placed my order using a voice record, I had to record my message twice. Both times, I was assured that it was accepted. However, I still received a reminder email prompting me to check if everything was okay. When I reached out to Guest Services, once again, I was ignored. Eventually, I received an email stating that my order would be shipped without the recorded message. This led to another round of frustrating interactions with Guest Services, where I was offered no real solution except to drive four hours to the nearest store to buy the item in person. The back-and-forth with Guest Services via email has been going on for two weeks now, with no resolution in sight. Their responses seem automated and do not address the specific issues I've raised, adding to my mounting frustration. Overall, this experience has been completely infuriating and, in my opinion, not worth the time and effort. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend buildabear.co.uk based on my experience.
K Kate Simmons
125 days ago

Turning Dissatisfaction Into Gratitude: My Journey with Build-A-Bear

As a loyal customer, my recent experience with buildabear.co.uk left me disheartened. I encountered numerous hurdles while trying to place an online order, feeling frustrated after multiple failed attempts to use my gift card and unresponsive "Guest Services." Despite recording my voice message twice for the bear, I faced a mix-up leading to a delay in shipping, which Guest Services failed to rectify promptly. Their indifferent attitude and lack of assistance left me feeling stranded, with the only solution suggested being a lengthy drive to the nearest store. The back-and-forth emails with unhelpful bot responses stretched over two weeks, adding to my disappointment. While these challenges tested my patience, I remain hopeful that Build-A-Bear can improve its customer service to match the joyful experience they aim to provide.

Introduction

Build-A-Bear Workshop is a popular interactive toy company that allows children to create and personalize their own stuffed animals. With a strong online presence, Build-A-Bear offers customers the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their own homes through their website, buildabear.co.uk. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into various aspects of the website, including user experience, pricing, customer service, product quality and selection, website usability, returns and exchanges, promotions and discounts, reputation, payment options, loyalty programs, customer reviews, community involvement, and shipping.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Extensive selection of customizable stuffed animals
  • User-friendly website with easy navigation
  • Wide range of promotional offers and discounts
  • High-quality products with attention to detail
  • Positive reputation and strong customer reviews

Cons:

  • Some products may be considered expensive
  • Limited availability of certain popular characters

User Experience

Buildabear.co.uk offers a seamless user experience, ensuring that customers can easily find and customize their desired stuffed animals. The website features clear and intuitive navigation, allowing users to browse through different categories such as bears, licensed characters, and accessories. Each product page includes detailed descriptions and visuals, enabling customers to make informed purchasing decisions. The customization process is user-friendly, providing step-by-step instructions that allow children and parents to create personalized stuffed animals effortlessly.

Pricing and Value for Money

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers a range of price points to accommodate different budgets. While some products may be considered expensive, the customization and personalization aspects add significant value, making the final product well worth the investment. Additionally, the website frequently offers promotions and discounts, enhancing the overall value for money.

Customer Service

Build-A-Bear Workshop prioritizes customer satisfaction and offers excellent customer service. Their website provides various avenues for customers to seek assistance, including a comprehensive FAQ section, live chat support, and a dedicated customer service hotline. The company's responsive and knowledgeable team ensures that any concerns or queries are addressed promptly and efficiently.

Product Quality and Selection

Build-A-Bear Workshop is renowned for its high-quality products that are meticulously crafted with attention to detail. The website offers a wide selection of customizable stuffed animals, including bears, licensed characters, and seasonal options. Customers can also choose from an array of outfits, accessories, and personalized additions to create a truly unique stuffed animal.

Website Usability

Buildabear.co.uk excels in website usability, providing an intuitive interface that makes shopping a breeze. The website's responsive design ensures a seamless experience across different devices, while well-organized categories and filters allow customers to quickly find what they are looking for. The checkout process is straightforward, and the website provides clear shipping and payment information for a hassle-free shopping experience.

Returns and Exchanges

Build-A-Bear Workshop has a fair and customer-friendly returns and exchanges policy. If customers are not satisfied with their purchase, they can return or exchange the product within a specified timeframe, provided it is in its original condition. The website provides clear instructions on how to initiate a return or exchange, ensuring a smooth process for customers.

Promotions and Discounts

Build-A-Bear Workshop regularly offers promotions and discounts, giving customers the opportunity to save money on their purchases. These promotions can range from discounted prices on specific products to buy-one-get-one offers. The website prominently displays ongoing promotions, making it easy for customers to take advantage of these deals.

Reputation

Build-A-Bear Workshop has built a strong reputation for its quality products and personalized shopping experience. With years of success in brick-and-mortar stores and a loyal customer base, the company has expanded its reach online. The positive reputation and numerous customer reviews attest to the brand's commitment to delivering exceptional products and customer service.

Payment Options

Buildabear.co.uk offers a variety of payment options to facilitate convenient transactions. Customers can choose to pay via major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, or opt for alternative methods like PayPal. The website ensures secure payment processing, protecting customers' personal and financial information.

Loyalty Programs

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers a loyalty program known as the 'Build-A-Bear Bonus Club.' Customers can join this program for free and earn points with each purchase. These points can then be redeemed for rewards, discounts, and special offers. The loyalty program enhances the overall customer experience and encourages repeat purchases.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews play a significant role in establishing the trustworthiness of a brand. Build-A-Bear Workshop has consistently received positive reviews, with customers praising the quality of their products, exceptional customer service, and the joy it brings to children. These reviews add to the credibility and trustworthiness of buildabear.co.uk.

Community Involvement

Build-A-Bear Workshop actively participates in community involvement initiatives, supporting numerous charitable causes. The company's website highlights their philanthropic endeavors, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact on society. This community involvement further enhances the brand's reputation and fosters a sense of goodwill among customers.

Shipping and Costs

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers reliable shipping services to customers in the UK. The website provides detailed information about shipping options, costs, and estimated delivery times. Customers can choose from standard or express shipping, depending on their preferences and urgency. The company endeavors to deliver products promptly and employs appropriate packaging to ensure items arrive in good condition.

In conclusion, buildabear.co.uk is a top-notch website that provides an exceptional online shopping experience for customers looking to create personalized stuffed animals. With a user-friendly interface, high-quality products, excellent customer service, and a reputation for excellence, Build-A-Bear Workshop remains a trusted destination for children and parents seeking the perfect interactive toy. Whether you're customizing a bear or exploring their wide range of licensed characters, buildabear.co.uk offers a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience.