(MCT) ST. LOUIS — Build-A-Bear Workshop, which recently worked with Disney-ABC Television Group to develop its first feature movie, will expand its on-air and online multimedia offerings through a new partnership with A Squared Entertainment, the companies announced on Monday.
Los Angeles-based A Squared also will develop a new line of Build-A-Bear licensed merchandise, including DVDs, accessories, apparel and books that will be sold in retail outlets outside Build-A-Bear stores. In addition, it will manage Build-A-Bear’s external licensing program.
Build-A-Bear, the St. Louis-based retailer, already partners with several other companies to sell licensed merchandise — such as bear-shaped fruit snacks made by ConAgra Foods, bear-inspired video games for Nintendo and Wii produced by the Game Factory, as well as children’s furniture and accessories and craft and activity books made by other outlets.
In November, Build-A-Bear helped produce “Holly and Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure,” which aired on ABC Family and was the first time that the company’s plush animals were brought to life on television. The hourlong movie followed the adventures of two high-strung elves who monitor the North Pole Weather Center. It was based on a book and series of animated webisodes that aired the previous year.
In addition to making movies and online videos, A Squared said it would also be creating other multimedia projects for Build-A-Bear on other digital devices.
A Squared produced a cartoon series called “Secret Millionaire’s Club,” in which billionaire investor Warren Buffett advises a group of kids and teaches them basic business principles. Some of its other projects include “Gisele & the Green Team,” in which supermodel-turned-superhero Gisele Bundchen leads a group of four girls in protecting the planet. Another project is “Martha & Friends,” in which a 10-year-old Martha Stewart impresses her friends with her do-it-yourself projects.
