Buildabear Reviews

Voted Terrible (2/5)

229 Votes

50 Reviews

Vote Now

In the Events & Entertainment category

Pie-Chart Analysis

70% users rated Terrible
10% users rated Poor
0% users rated Average
4% users rated Very Good
16% users rated Excellent
Write a review
M Mary B
69 days ago

Exceptional Quality and Service

I recently had the pleasure of purchasing two bears from buildabear.com, and I am absolutely thrilled with my experience. I ordered the Gandalf bear, along with a gift box, and the HP Trivia gift box bear. I opted to have the bears dressed, and I could not wait for them to arrive. When the package arrived, I eagerly opened it, only to find a delightful surprise waiting for me. The HP bear was neatly tucked inside a charming box, accompanied by a loose scarf, a handsome brown bear, and a set of clothing. Despite my initial expectation, I did not receive dressed bears or a gift box. However, the outfit intended for Gandalf bore signs of wear and tear, appearing aged and bobbled. The fit of the beard and hair seemed inconsistent with the bear, which was disappointing given the premium price I paid. Nonetheless, the HP bear appeared pristine and new. My experience with buildabear.com was disheartening due to the discrepancies in product presentation and quality. While the HP bear met my expectations, the Gandalf bear fell short, leaving me hesitant to make future online purchases.
M Mary B
69 days ago

A Touch of Magic Lost in Transit

Let me share my experience with buildabear.com that left me feeling utterly let down. I was super excited to receive my order of two bears – Gandalf and a Harry Potter Trivia bear - complete with a special gift box. Opting for the dressed bear option, I eagerly awaited their arrival. However, my excitement quickly turned to dismay when I opened the cardboard box to find the bears seemingly haphazardly thrown inside. The Harry Potter bear was stuck in a box, with a loose scarf, alongside a plain brown bear and a jumbled pile of clothing. No dressed bears, no gift box. To make matters worse, Gandalf’s outfit looked worn out and shabby, resembling something you’d find at a thrift store rather than a premium product. Despite the HP bear looking relatively unscathed, the overall experience fell short of expectations, especially considering the steep price of £36.40 plus postage. Sadly, this disappointing encounter has left me hesitant to shop online with buildabear.com again.
S Stephanie
95 days ago

A Magical Experience at Build-A-Bear

I recently had a magical experience at buildabear.com that I just had to share. The staff were incredibly attentive and helpful, ensuring that my daughter and I had a wonderful time. We initially had a budget of £30 in mind, and the staff respected that. However, they went above and beyond to make the experience truly special for my daughter. They engaged her in choosing an outfit for her bear, and she was absolutely thrilled with the mermaid outfit. While our initial budget was surpassed, the joy on my daughter's face was priceless. The staff's dedication to creating a memorable experience for her was truly heartwarming. I left the store feeling grateful for the extra mile they went to make my daughter's day. I would highly recommend Build-A-Bear to anyone looking for a special and personalized experience. Thank you to the amazing staff for making our visit truly magical!
S Stephanie
95 days ago

Exceptional Experience at Buildabear.com!

I cannot say enough about my exceptional experience at Buildabear.com! From the moment I walked in, the staff was incredibly helpful and friendly. My daughter and I had a £30 budget in mind, and the staff respected that completely. They took the time to understand our preferences and helped us pick out the perfect bear without pressuring us to buy anything extra. What truly stood out was how the staff engaged with my daughter, making the experience so magical for her. They took her to choose an outfit for the bear, and she was over the moon with joy. The staff's genuine care and attention made the experience unforgettable. I left Buildabear.com feeling like we had received incredible value for our money, and my daughter left with a huge smile on her face. I highly recommend Buildabear.com to anyone looking for a special and personalized experience. Thank you to the amazing staff for making our visit so memorable!
L linda welsh
111 days ago

My grand kids were not happy about…

As a grandmother, I only want the best for my grandkids. When I ordered bears from buildabear.com, I was disheartened to see how quickly they fell apart. My grandkids were devastated. It's essential that products designed for kids are durable and long-lasting. However, I reached out to the customer service team, and they were incredibly understanding and proactive in resolving the issue. They not only replaced the bears but also assured me that they would improve the quality of their products. I was touched by their empathy and commitment to customer satisfaction. I appreciate the swift resolution and the caring attitude of the customer service team, which salvaged my grandkids' love for their bears. I'm looking forward to seeing the enhanced products, and I'm grateful for the excellent customer support. Thank you, buildabear.com, for valuing your customers' feedback and making it right.
C Cynthia Cooper
113 days ago

Ordered 2 bears

I recently discovered Build-A-Bear and decided to order two bears for my grandsons. However, when the package arrived, I was disappointed to find that the bears were simply stuffed in a box with no additional packaging. The box itself was in poor condition, with visible cracks and damage. This experience left me feeling dissatisfied and concerned about the condition of the bears. I believe that presentation and packaging are essential when it comes to making a purchase, especially when it's a gift for loved ones. The lack of care in packaging and protecting the bears during transit was unacceptable and has understandably left me hesitant to place future orders with Build-A-Bear. Words cannot express the disappointment I felt upon seeing the state of the package. I hope that Build-A-Bear takes this feedback to heart and considers implementing better packaging practices in the future. As a customer who values attention to detail and quality, I truly hope for an improved experience should I decide to give this company another chance. Despite this unfortunate experience, I remain hopeful that Build-A-Bear will take the necessary steps to ensure that all customers receive their orders in perfect condition. Thank you for considering my feedback.
C Cynthia Cooper
113 days ago

A Heartwarming Gift Turned Unforgettable Disaster

I stumbled upon buildabear.com while searching for the perfect gift for my grandsons. Excitedly, I ordered two bears, eagerly anticipating their joy upon receiving them. However, when the package arrived, my heart sank. The bears were carelessly stuffed in a tattered box without any protective wrapping, and the box itself was damaged, revealing its contents. Disappointed and disheartened, I couldn't believe the lack of care in handling such precious gifts for my grandsons. Regrettably, this experience has led me to the decision of never placing an online order with them again. My hope is that others won't encounter a similar situation, and that buildabear.com will take steps to ensure the safe and secure delivery of their products in the future.
K Katrina
114 days ago

I wouldn’t buy anything online from…

I am absolutely thrilled with my experience on buildabear.com! I recently purchased a bear and outfit for my son for Christmas, and the quality exceeded my expectations. Not only was the bear incredibly adorable, but the outfit was equally as impressive. The attention to detail and craftsmanship truly showcased the care that went into creating these products. Customer service was also top-notch. When I encountered an issue with the missing outfit, the support team responded promptly and assured me that they would rectify the situation. True to their word, they promptly shipped a replacement outfit. I was pleasantly surprised by the level of professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction. I cannot stress enough the joy and happiness that this purchase brought to my son. Seeing the excitement on his face was absolutely priceless. Build-A-Bear has not only gained a loyal customer in me, but they have also won my trust and confidence in their products and services. I highly recommend buildabear.com to anyone looking for a magical and delightful experience. Thank you, Build-A-Bear, for making our Christmas even more special!
K Katrina
114 days ago

Exceptional Service and Quality at Build-A-Bear Workshop!

I had the most heartwarming experience shopping at Build-A-Bear Workshop recently. I purchased a bear and outfit for my son for Christmas, but unfortunately, the outfit was missing when the package arrived. Despite this initial hiccup, the customer support team at Build-A-Bear went above and beyond to rectify the situation. After reaching out to their support team, they promptly assured me that they would send another outfit right away. However, when the tracking information didn't update after two weeks, I contacted them again. At first, there seemed to be a miscommunication, but once I provided them with the tracking number, they quickly sprung into action. The team at Build-A-Bear not only investigated the issue but also assured me that they would resolve it. I was impressed by their dedication to customer satisfaction and their willingness to go the extra mile to make things right. In the end, their efforts paid off, and I received the missing outfit for my son's bear. The quality of the product exceeded my expectations, and the joy on my son's face when he received his complete gift was priceless. I am truly grateful for the exceptional service and care provided by Build-A-Bear Workshop. Despite the initial setback, their proactive approach and commitment to resolving the issue have made me a loyal customer. Thank you, Build-A-Bear Workshop, for turning a challenging situation into a delightful experience!
S Stephanie
114 days ago

Cute and fun, but not worth the hassle…

I recently had the joy of ordering from buildabear.com, and while the process was initially exciting, it unfortunately led to a bit of disappointment. I placed my order on 12/4/23 and eagerly anticipated its arrival, only to find that it was missing the gift card that I had also purchased. Additionally, the birth certificate that was included with the bear had the wrong details. In an effort to rectify these issues, I reached out to customer service, hoping for a simple solution. However, I was disheartened to be told that the mistake couldn't be corrected and that I would need to visit a physical store to resolve the issue. While I understand that mistakes happen, I was left feeling frustrated by the lack of accountability and the added stress of trying to fix the errors in time for Christmas. Despite these challenges, I must acknowledge that the concept of buildabear.com is undeniably cute and enjoyable. Naming our bear Penelope and choosing her birthdate was a wonderful experience, and I can see the potential for this to be a truly memorable gift. However, the hassle of dealing with these errors ultimately overshadowed the initial excitement. If you're considering gifting someone from buildabear.com, I would advise approaching with caution, as the potential for disappointment and frustration is unfortunately high. Consider spending your money at a place that prioritizes quality and values their customers' satisfaction. While the idea of creating a personalized bear is certainly fun, the current lack of accountability for mistakes makes it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend this as a seamless gifting experience.
S Stephanie
114 days ago

Build-A-Bear: A Heartwarming Experience with Room for Improvement

As a doting aunt, I wanted to surprise my niece with a personalized gift from Build-A-Bear. I meticulously designed and ordered Penelope, complete with a birth certificate, and eagerly awaited its arrival before Christmas. However, when the package finally arrived, there was no sign of the purchased gift card, and to my dismay, the wrong birth certificate accompanied a bear named Laquena, not Penelope. Determined to rectify the situation, I reached out to their customer service, only to be met with an apologetic yet unhelpful response. They were unable to send the correct certificate and suggested that I visit a store instead. The link provided did not match the intended birth certificate, compounding the frustration. Despite this setback, the concept of Build-A-Bear is undeniably endearing, offering a unique and personalized gifting experience. The disappointment lies in the lack of accountability for their errors, leading to unnecessary stress and inconvenience, especially during the holiday season. It's disheartening when a company fails to uphold their end of the bargain, undermining the joy of gift-giving. While the idea is charming, the execution fell short of expectations. My hope is that Build-A-Bear will prioritize quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every interaction is as heartwarming as the concept itself.
M Maya Issa
116 days ago

Build a bear Belconnen

Feeling frustrated after reading unkind reviews online, I was hesitant to visit Build a Bear in Belconnen. However, my experience was anything but disappointing. Upon arriving, the staff greeted me with warmth and enthusiasm, immediately dispelling any reservations I had. The shop was beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. As I browsed the adorable selection of furry friends and outfits, the staff went above and beyond to assist me in creating the perfect personalized teddy bear for my niece. Their dedication and passion for ensuring an exceptional customer experience were evident throughout my visit. Even during the busy Christmas season, the staff remained attentive and patient, offering valuable suggestions and making the entire process enjoyable and stress-free. Ultimately, I left the store feeling grateful for the exceptional service I received and excited to see the joy on my niece's face when she received her special gift. I highly recommend Build a Bear in Belconnen to anyone seeking a magical and memorable shopping experience. Thank you, Build a Bear, for exceeding my expectations and spreading the joy of giving during the holiday season!
M Maya Issa
116 days ago

Unbearyvable Experience at Build a Bear Belconnen

As a longtime fan of Build a Bear, I was excited to visit the Belconnen store and create a special Christmas gift. However, my experience was anything but magical. Upon arrival, I was disheartened to find a sign on the door indicating that the store would reopen at 1:50, only to have the time change to 2:35 without any explanation. This inconsistency left me feeling frustrated and disappointed. During the festive season, I expected a warm and welcoming environment, but instead, I encountered a sense of disorganization and a lack of consideration for customers. This experience has regrettably led me to question whether I will continue to support this store. I hope that Build a Bear Belconnen can address these issues and provide the joyful and reliable experience that their customers deserve, especially during such a special time of year.
M Mrs J
119 days ago

Disappointed with Build-A-Bear

I recently had a disappointing experience with Build-A-Bear, and I feel compelled to share my story. I ordered an online exclusive item from buildabear.com and was eagerly anticipating its arrival. However, when the item finally came, I was shocked to find that it looked nothing like the picture on the website. The quality was subpar, and it arrived without any protective packaging, in a torn brown box, with a certificate in a similarly damaged state. When I reached out to Customer Services for assistance, I was initially met with unhelpfulness. Despite expressing my desire to return the item, I was told I could do so at any store, including a specific Hamley's concession. However, upon visiting Hamley's and explaining the situation, I was met with confusion as they claimed to have no knowledge of online returns being accepted in-store. This entire ordeal has left me feeling disillusioned. Build-A-Bear, once synonymous with quality, has evidently fallen short. It's disheartening to see a company I once held in high regard disappoint its customers in such a manner. I sincerely hope that the necessary measures are taken to rectify these issues, as no customer should have to endure receiving a poor-quality product and struggling to return it. I had such high expectations for Build-A-Bear, and it pains me to say that they have lost a loyal customer in me. I truly hope that they can regain their footing and once again deliver on their promise of quality and customer satisfaction.
M Mrs J
119 days ago

A Heartfelt Journey of Disappointment Turned Into a Learning Experience

After stumbling upon buildabear.com, my excitement peaked as I found an exclusive item I couldn't resist ordering. Anticipation turned into dismay upon receiving the package – a stark contrast to the enchanting product displayed online. The quality fell short, and the lack of protective packaging left much to be desired. The torn brown box, accompanied by a ripped certificate, mirrored my disappointment. Frustrated, I reached out to Customer Services, hoping for resolution. Initially met with unhelpfulness, I insisted on returning the item. Assured that any store, including Hamley's, could facilitate the return – I pinned my hopes on a convenient resolution. However, upon arriving at Hamley's, reality shattered my expectations. The staff's confusion painted a bleak picture, and my plea for assistance was met with blank stares. The promise of returning online purchases at their store evaporated, leaving me with a sense of helplessness and a subpar product in hand. Build a Bear, renowned for their quality products, missed the mark this time. Although disappointment clouded my experience, I choose to turn it into a learning opportunity. This setback reshaped my expectations, prompting me to advocate for clarity and accountability in online transactions. Despite this hiccup, my loyalty wavers, hoping for a revival of the quality I once admired. The journey from excitement to disillusionment has left me reflecting, hopeful for a brighter chapter in my customer experience.

Introduction

Build-A-Bear Workshop is an American retailer that specializes in customizable stuffed toys. Buildabear.com is their e-commerce website where customers can personalise their own teddy bears, bunnies and other soft toys. The website was launched in 2007 and has since become a popular destination for children and adults alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros: - Huge variety of stuffed toys to choose from - Customisation options available - Competitive pricing - User-friendly and easy to navigate website interface - Free shipping on orders above $45 Cons: - Limited physical store locations, limited international shipping - Customisation options may make the purchase process lengthy - The website does not offer a large selection of accessories

User Experience

Buildabear.com has an easy-to-use website interface that makes shopping fun and enjoyable. The website is well-designed, visually attractive and easy to navigate. The site provides customers with an array of options that lets them personalize their stuffed toys right from the comfort of their homes.

Pricing and Value for Money

Buildabear.com prices vary depending on the stuffed toy's size and accessories. The prices range from $10-$70. A basic stuffed toy with no clothes or other accessories can cost anywhere between $10 - $20. If customers decide to add clothes and accessories to their stuffed toys, then the price can go up significantly. It's worth noting that the prices are slightly competitive compared to other retailers, which is great value for money.

Alternatives

Buildabear.com's biggest alternative is Teddy Mountain. Teddy Mountain offers similar services as Buildabear.com. However, the prices for customization can be high compared to Buildabear.com, and the website is not as user-friendly.

Customer Service

Buildabear.com offers excellent customer service. Customers can get in touch with the customer service team via email, phone, or live chat. There is also an FAQ section available on the website that covers common queries. The customer service team is prompt and knowledgeable, making shopping on Buildabear.com a smooth experience.

Product Quality and Selection

Buildabear.com stocks an impressive variety of stuffed toys that cater to different age groups. The stuffed toys are of high quality, and the website offers customized options whereby customers can add accessories and clothes to their preferred stuffed toy.

Website Usability

Buildabear.com has an easy-to-use website design that allows for seamless navigation. The pages are well-organized, and the policies are easy to understand. The search bar is prominently displayed, which makes it easy to locate your preferred stuffed toy.

Returns and Exchanges

Buildabear.com accepts returns or exchanges on merchandise within 90 days of purchase. The merchandise must be in unwashed, unused and resalable condition. Customers can choose to return the merchandise via any shipping method of their choice. Exceptions apply, however, to certain personalized items.

Promotions and Discounts

Buildabear.com runs promotions and discounts throughout the year. There are also birthday discounts and exclusive promos for members of the Build-A-Bear Bonus Club. There are discounts ranging from 10% to 50% off merchandise prices, which is great value for money.

Reputation

Build-A-Bear Workshop has a great reputation in the toy industry. The company has been around for over 20 years and has amassed a loyal customer base. The website has a high level of customer satisfaction, and customer feedback is generally positive.

Payment Options

Buildabear.com accepts all major credit and debit cards, PayPal and Apple Pay. Payment is processed securely, and all customers' financial data is protected by SSL encryption technology.

Loyalty Programs

Buildabear.com offers a loyalty program called "Build-A-Bear Bonus Club." The program offers members exclusive promotions and discounts, early access to products, and rewards points for purchases. Members can redeem points for a variety of rewards, such as exclusive merchandise and free shipping.

Customer Reviews

Buildabear.com has a good number of customer reviews that showcase positive experiences of customers. The reviews attest to the quality of the products and the ease of customization that the website offers.

Community Involvement

Buildabear.com is involved in various community programs that aim to give back to the community. Some of the initiatives include funding schools, children hospitals, food banks, etc.

Shipping and Costs

Buildabear.com offers free shipping on all orders above $45. The website also provides standard shipping services, which typically takes between 3-8 business days. Shipping fees are based on the order value, as well as the shipping location. Importantly, international shipping is not offered.

Conclusion

Overall, buildabear.com offers a seamless shopping experience with affordable pricing, quality products, and customization options. Customer service is excellent, and the website is well-designed, making shopping comfortable for users. Though there are a few improvements that could be made, such as having more physical store locations and more accessory options, the website is still an excellent destination for anyone looking for fun, personalized stuffed toys.