
Move over, cookies and milk! There’s a new holiday pairing in town, and it’s finger-lickin’ good. In a partnership that’s hotter than a fresh batch of fried chicken, Build-A-Bear Workshop has teamed up with the iconic fried chicken giant, KFC, to create a deliciously cute collection of plush toys and food-inspired accessories. Whether you’re a fan of cuddly bears or crispy chicken, this new “collaBEARation” (get it?) is here to bring some extra joy to your holiday season.
It’s today!
Starting today you can get your hands on this partnership between Build-A-Bear and KFC that combines the best of both worlds: the creative, hands-on fun of customizing your own plush friend with the nostalgia and comfort of everyone’s favorite fried chicken. It’s like if your teddy bear and your bucket of chicken decided to have a family reunion. The collection, available exclusively at Build-A-Bear workshops and online, includes several KFC-inspired items that will have you grinning from ear to ear—whether you’re a plush collector or just looking for the quirkiest gift for your favorite chicken lover. KFC’s got all the tricks!
The collection includes:
- KFC Bucket Costume
- KFC Plush Chicken Wristie
- KFC Pajama Outfit
“This collection is a blend of creativity, nostalgia, and fun that unites fans of both iconic brands in an unexpected way,” said Sharon Price John, President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop. “It’s all about delivering playful, memorable experiences—served up with a side of KFC’s signature comfort. Together, we’re bringing two beloved passions—customization and comfort food—to the table in a whole new way.”
The unconventional is IN!
Sure, this collaboration might seem a little unconventional, but it’s a reminder of how brands are constantly evolving to bring a little fun and unexpected joy to their customers. Comfort food? Check. Comfort toys? Double check. And what better time than the holidays to embrace both? This partnership is also a reminder that creative marketing campaigns don’t have to be all business and no play—they can also be a way to bring joy, laughter, and fun to people of all ages. And in a world that’s often too serious, we could all use a little more of that. Toys and treats? The perfect duo!
Build-A-Bear loves a good collab!

Build-A-Bear Workshop is no stranger to creative and fun collaborations, often teaming up with popular brands, franchises, and cultural icons to create unique, collectible stuffed animals and accessories. These collaborations blend the customizable, hands-on experience of creating a bear with the distinctive identity of the partnering brand. Here are some of the most notable Build-A-Bear collaborations:
- Build-A-Bear x Harry Potter: The Harry Potter collection is a fan favorite for those who want to bring a little magic into their lives. Build-A-Bear released a range of plush bears inspired by the wizarding world, including a Harry Potter bear, Hermione Granger, and Hedwig, Harry’s loyal owl. The bears can be dressed in Hogwarts robes and accessorized with wands, scarves, and other iconic Harry Potter items. It’s a dream come true for anyone who ever wanted to have a little piece of Hogwarts in their home.
- Build-A-Bear x Disney: Another beloved franchise that’s often in Build-A-Bear’s repertoire is Disney. Over the years, Build-A-Bear has worked with Disney to create Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and other beloved Disney characters like Winnie the Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, and Elsa from Frozen. These collaboration lines feature outfits and accessories directly inspired by the characters’ original costumes, and fans can personalize them further with themed clothes and accessories.
Thinking outside the box it’s where is at. Consumers want new and different things that appeal to their interests from teddy bears to fried chicken buckets.
Wanna learn more? Talk to our team!









