About this episode
Send a textIn this episode of Market Outsiders, Jenny Rae and Namaan unpack one of retail’s most unexpected survivors: Build-A-Bear. Build-A-Bear is a mall-based stuffed animal retailer in an AI-driven world – and yet it’s a profitable public company with rising stock performance.We cover:What the company really sells – and how customization drives pricing powerWhat the financials reveal about profitability and scaleThe next move: U.S. focus, international expansion, or partnershipsA sharp look at retail economics, defensibility, and what it actually takes to survive.Episode Links:Annual Report - SEC Form 10-K Filing for Fiscal Year 2024 (Build-A-Bear)Executive Presentation Training:Learn more about Executive Presentation and Storytelling Training with Management ConsultedChapters: 00:00 – Should Build-A-Bear Be Dead?01:45 – The “Pay Your Age” Hook04:30 – Chipotle for Teddy Bears06:40 – Public Company Surprise09:00 – Breaking Down the Financials12:30 – Retail vs AI Disruption16:45 – Growth Levers That Matter22:30 – U.S. Core vs Global Expansion29:00 – What Would You Do Next?MBB Undergrad Timelines Are This MonthApplication deadlines are the earliest we've ever seen; join Black Belt for an accelerated, MBB-led prep programConnect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us (
