Amazing job, disappointing management. - Associate Workshop Manager Build-A-Bear Employee Review

4.0
May 6, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Working for BABW was one of the best experiences I have had in my retail career. Working with children is a blast, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it more fun than work. Very easy to become passionate about your work. Corporate had a very good idea of what it takes to retain employees and have a good workplace environment. In the top 100 places to worm for a reason!

Cons

I worked at a floundering store that was one of the original BABW locations. At the end of my time there we switched corporate management and the focus became more numbers oriented and less about the client. I am not sure if that is still true today but the shift in focus lead to less enjoyable customer experiences, and I believe the customer happiness should be at the forefront of every interaction. I experienced poor management at an in-store and district level. As can be in any retail situation, the middle and upper management politics prevented a lot of potential from blossoming, and left a bad taste in my mouth.

Explore other reviews about Build-A-Bear

5.0
Jun 25, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Was easy and got to work with people

Cons

Pay not great, no where to go

1.0
Jul 20, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

30% normal discount 50% during Christmas

Cons

Horrible company that is poorly managed from top to bottom. Union busters, don't stand up for employees safety, will defend awful customers and even reward them.

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