Beloved global toy brand Build-A-Bear Workshop has just announced a finger-lickin' good collaboration with KFC that's inspired by the chain's red-and-white striped bucket.
Together, the two iconic brands will combine a lovable plush toy and America's favorite comfort food for an adorable range of outfits and accessories.
With the aim of celebrating togetherness this holiday season, the new collection will let children dress their plush companions exclusively at Build-A-Bear workshops and on the brand's website. It includes:
- The KFC Bucket Costume
- The KFC Pajama Outfit
- The KFC Plush Chicken Wristie
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In a press release, Build-A-Bear Workshop President and CEO Sharon Price John highlighted how the nostalgic and fun collection will unite fans of both iconic brands:
"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 new product line is now available for a limited time in the U.S.
By joining forces for an unexpected collaboration, KFC and Build-A-Bear Workshop are creating a new way to generate audience interest.
This underscores the significant impact that brand partnerships can have in increasing audience reach.
Building A Brand
Established in 1997, Build-A-Bear's mission of adding "a little more heart to life" manifests in the brand's signature experience, which allows customers to customize and create their own furry friends.
Aside from its latest effort with KFC, the toy company has expanded its offerings to include collaborations with hundreds of different brands, many of which promote a particular property or event.
Just last week, the Build-A-Bear unveiled a new collection to coincide with the release of the "Wicked" movie.
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It has also collaborated with everything from Hello Kitty to "Stranger Things," which is a testament to the brand's ability to adapt to evolving trends.
Launching partnerships between big brands that aim to create a unique product offering is something that needs creative design and extensive planning from a team of experts.
Meanwhile, KFC has also built a name for itself in the toy space, previously partnering with Funko to put Colonel Sanders inside the toy company's new video game.
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Not wanting to put itself in a box, the iconic chicken chain has amassed a history of collaborations that nobody would expect.
Last month, KFC joined forces with sleep wellness company Hatch to create white noise out of the sound of frying chicken.
