Ensuring Safe, Compliant Operations Across Build-A-Bear’s UK Stores

Build-A-Bear Workshop, a globally recognised brand, operates multiple retail outlets across the UK. Known for its interactive in-store experience, Build-A-Bear’s operations require electrical equipment to be consistently safe, fully functional, and compliant with safety regulations. With a network of stores requiring regular testing, Build-A-Bear sought a trusted partner to manage their electrical testing needs.

The Challenge

With stores spread across the UK, Build-A-Bear needed an electrical testing provider capable of ensuring safety across all locations. The challenges included:

• Consistency in Service: Ensuring all stores receive testing to the same high standard, regardless of location.
• Efficient Communication: With an internal estates team handling building management, Build-A-Bear needed a provider that could work efficiently and communicate clearly.
• Non-Disruptive Testing: Testing needed to be carried out before opening hours or after closing hours to ensure there was no disruption to customers or store operations.

Our Solution

Hawkesworth provided a comprehensive PAT testing solution across Build-A-Bear’s UK locations, ensuring both compliance and operational continuity.

• National Coverage: With a network of over 100 engineers nationwide, Hawkesworth can attend any location, wherever it’s situated, ensuring consistency and efficiency across all sites.
• Dedicated Account Management: One dedicated contact from Hawkesworth’s team ensures smooth communication, helping to reschedule testing and addressing any questions Build-A-Bear’s estates team may have.
• Non-Disruptive Service: Testing was carried out during out-of-hours periods, preventing any disruption to customers or staff and maintaining seamless store operations.
• Comprehensive Equipment Testing: From computers and point-of-sale systems to the unique stuffing pumps, all equipment was tested, ensuring every aspect of the in-store experience is safe and functional.

Hawkesworth provides an excellent service each and every time, with comprehensive reports so we can see which of our assets are fully functional, and which need repairing.”

– Retail Operations Manager, Build-A-Bear Workshop

The Results

• Streamlined Compliance: Build-A-Bear’s UK-wide locations now have a streamlined process for ensuring electrical equipment safety and compliance, reducing the risk of electrical faults and operational downtime.
• Efficient Communication: A clear, single point of contact within Hawkesworth’s team allowed Build-A-Bear’s estates team to easily manage the testing process and keep operations running smoothly.
• Minimal Disruption: By carrying out testing outside store hours, we ensured no impact on customer experience or daily store functions.