Build-A-Bear CEO apologizes for chaos caused by 'Pay Your Age Day' promotion

Shoppers across country disappointed after promotion cut short

TROY, Mich. – Malls across the country and in Metro Detroit were flooded with people Thursday for Build-A-Bear's "Pay Your Age Day" promotion.

Massive crowds responded to the promotion, and the company responded to the chaos by handing out $15 off coupons. The coupons are available until Aug. 31, and the "Pay Your Age Day" promotion will be available to children on their birthdays.

Somerset and Twelve Oaks were among the malls flooded with parents and children hoping to get a bear for a bargain, but it didn't work. The promotion was too successful to make it available to most of the people who waited in line.

Parents were angry, children were crying and everyone who didn't get the deal was disappointed. CEO Sharon Price John apologized for the disaster Friday morning on the "Today" show.

You can hear her comments in the video posted above.


About the Authors

Hank Winchester is Local 4’s Consumer Investigative Reporter and the head of WDIV’s “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit. Hank works to solve consumer complaints, reveal important recalls and track down thieves who have ripped off people in our community.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

Recommended Videos