Build-A-Bear Shop In Belfast Forced To Close

The Build-A-Bear toy shop in Victoria Square in Belfast was forced to close following reports of assaults as shoppers gathered to attend a promotion offer.

The firm was holding a 'pay-your-age' offer and thousands of people made their way to the store.

However, there were reports of attacks and a pregnant member of staff is believed to have been assaulted.

The retailer said there had been an "unprecedented" response to the promotion.

Neil Saunders, managing director of analysts GlobalData Retail, said: "The decision to shut stores and end the promotion early was necessary on both safety and operational grounds, but it will damage the brand.

"A lot of parents are now upset that they cannot fulfil promises to their children, and many who made special trips to malls are frustrated that their efforts have come to nothing.

"In our view, Build-A-Bear is going to have to take some action to remedy this, maybe by offering deals and special offers to those affected.

"This could have a future impact on profits, although it will be helpful to sales volumes."

(CD)