Although Build-a-Bear's neighboring concept store Friends 2B Made is projected to survive the holidays, don't expect to waltz into their Fifth Avenue shop in 2009 looking for a last-minute $40 stuffed animal gift. All nine of the nation's Friends 2B Made stores will be closing next year to make room for expansions of the Build-a-Bear line.
The BBW (Build-a-Bear Workshop, of course) at Fifth Avenue and East 46th Street is already the brand's largest location, and aren't we lucky? It will expand further into the old Friends 2B Made Space, no doubt solidifying their reputation as THE place to hold a birthday party on Fifth Avenue. Sorry upscale retail, but this space is spoken for.
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