Product Safety
Voluntary Recall Notice: Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2
Build-A-Bear is voluntarily recalling the Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 with zipper closure. This recall applies only to the specific item numbers listed below.
Product affected
The recalled product is the Build-A-Bear Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 with zipper closure, sold in Build-A-Bear Workshop locations and online.
- Product name: Build-A-Bear Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 with zipper closure
- Item numbers: 34464
- Sales dates: January 2026 – March 2026
- Sales channels: Build-A-Bear Workshop locations, buildabear.com.au, buildabear.co.nz and ebay.com.au/usr/buildabearworkshopau
Why is the product being recalled?
The zipper slider on the side pouch of the furry friend can detach, posing a choking hazard and risk of serious injury or death to children.
What should consumers do?
Consumers should stop using the recalled Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 immediately and return it to a Build-A-Bear Workshop location.
Return in store
Upon return, Guests will receive a refund to the original form of payment or a gift card for the original purchase price.
Mail-in return support
Consumers unable to return their Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 to a local store can contact the Product Quality Hotline or email support for assistance with a mail-in return.
Frequently asked questions
Where was the product sold?
The product was sold at Build-A-Bear Workshop locations and online at buildabear.com.au, buildabear.co.nz and ebay.com.au/usr/buildabearworkshopau.
How many units are affected?
The zipper slider detachment may affect approximately 30,000 units worldwide. Build-A-Bear is voluntarily recalling the product out of an abundance of caution, as the safety of guests and their families is the top priority.
Have there been reports of incidents or injuries?
There has been one consumer report in the United Kingdom of the zipper slider detaching while in use, and no reports in Australia, New Zealand or the United States. No injuries have been reported.
What is the remedy?
Upon return of the recalled product to a Build-A-Bear Workshop, consumers will receive a gift card for the original purchase price to use for any available Make-Your-Own furry friend and other available merchandise in-store or online at buildabear.com.au.
Alternatively, consumers may request a refund to their original form of payment.
Should consumers try to remove or repair the zipper slider themselves?
No. Consumers should not attempt to repair or modify the product and should instead follow the official recall instructions to receive the remedy.
Are other Heartwarming Hugs or Build-A-Bear plush products included?
No. Only the Heartwarming Hugs Bear 2 with zipper closure is included in this voluntary recall.
Does ACCC know about this?
Yes. We have worked closely with government agencies to ensure we are compliant. Feel free to visit: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls/heartwarming-hugs-bear-2-with-the-zipper-closure
Need help?
Please contact the Build-A-Bear Product Quality Hotline:
- Phone: Please call your local Workshop. Find a store.
- Email: recall@buildabear.com.au
