Build-A-Bear to reopen eight shops on June 15

BUILD-A-Bear plans to reopen eight stores on June 15 following coronavirus closures.

The retailer was forced to temporarily close a few months ago after the government ordered all non-essential shops to do so on March 23.

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But with a wide range of retailers allowed to welcome back shoppers next week, Build-a-Bear is also making a gradual return.

It told The Sun it plans to open eight stores on June 15, with all remaining shops set to open by the end of June.

The retailer hasn't yet confirmed which stores will reopen first so we'll update this article once we hear back.

Build-a-Bear said the timing of reopening each store will vary, depending on the rules and guidance of local governments.

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Build-A-Bear has 52 stores across the UK, plus five more in Ireland, according to its website. You can find your nearest one here.

The retailer said it has "modified the Build-A-Bear experience to deliver a safe, fun shopping environment while maintaining the unique elements that make Build-A-Bear special".

It hasn't yet clarified the kind of measures it's introduced, so we'll update this article once we hear back.

Build-A-Bear specialises in giving children the opportunity to stuff their own toys and even record a message so it can speak to make the gifts more personal.

The retailer also offers kids' birthday parties in stores.

Shoppers have been able to order items on its website during lockdown, although it warns that deliveries may take up to seven days to arrive.

Standard delivery with Royal Mail costs £3.99 per order.

Build-a-Bear is the latest retailer to announce plans to reopen stores, with Next and John Lewis reopening branches on June 15 too.

Meanwhile, Matalan has already been allowed to reopen as it sells homeware.

Keen to shop? We've rounded up the shops that are open today.

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