# Cuddly Plush Collectibles Build-A-Bear Workshop's SKOOSHERZ are Made for Hugging By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2024-01-15 | Life-Stages Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skoosherz References: [es-us.finanzas.yahoo](https://es-us.finanzas.yahoo.com/news/build-bear-introduces-skoosherz-newest-161600983.html) & [buildabear](https://www.buildabear.com/skoosherz-pink-axolotl-stuffed-animal-/032255.html?cgid=stuffed-animals-build-a-bear-collections-build-a-bear-skoosherz)  National Hug Day is coming up at the end of January and in preparation for this annual event in support of expressing affection, [Build-A-Bear Workshop](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heartwarming-hugs) is introducing a new line of [collectible plush companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urupochachan) called SKOOSHERZ. Named after a hug, or a "skoosh," these rounded ultra-plush friends feature [extra soft stuffing for squishing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/squishpillow-by-original-squishmallows). These cuddly plush toys were inspired by research that says hugs improve emotional and physical well-being by boosting oxytocin, also known as the "cuddle hormone." Build-A-Bear is introducing SKOOSHERZ to the world with a limited number of characters, including a Rainbow Sparkle Teddy Bear, a Red Raptor, a Strawberry Cow and a fan-favorite Toy of the Year Finalist, the Pink Axolotl. After the initial launch of SKOOSHERZ, Build-A-Bear will be introducing even more collectible versions throughout the year. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.0/10 - Popularity: 91% | Activity: 97% | Freshness: 21% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Life-Stages](https://www.trendhunter.com/life-stages) > [Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/toys) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Plush Collectibles:** Build-A-Bear Workshop's SKOOSHERZ offer a new line of huggable, collectible plush companions that are inspired by the emotional and physical benefits of hugs. - **National Hug Day:** In anticipation of National Hug Day, Build-A-Bear Workshop is promoting the importance of expressing affection through their new line of SKOOSHERZ collectibles that are designed for hugging. - **Cuddle Hormone:** Build-A-Bear Workshop's SKOOSHERZ are created with extra soft stuffing to provide a sensory experience that boosts oxytocin, also known as the 'cuddle hormone'. ### Where This Applies - **Toy Manufacturing:** The introduction of Build-A-Bear Workshop's SKOOSHERZ presents an opportunity for toy manufacturers to tap into the growing demand for plush collectibles that promote emotional well-being. - **Retail:** Retailers can capitalize on the popularity of SKOOSHERZ by incorporating these cuddly plush companions into their product offerings, particularly in the lead-up to National Hug Day. - **Wellness:** The release of SKOOSHERZ by Build-A-Bear Workshop opens up possibilities for wellness companies to explore the connection between tactile stimulation and emotional wellness, particularly through huggable plush toys. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Warming Weighted Plushies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heartwarming-hugs.md) - [Personalised Plush Gifts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/squeezeaway.md) - [Interactive Holiday Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bearlieve-bear.md) - [Luxury Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/red-velvet-sparkle-buildabear-collectible.md) - [Giftable Flower-Themed Bears](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/furever-flower-shoppe.md) - [Sensory Plush Accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mooshmoosh.md) - [Adult-Targeted Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/build-a-bear-after-dark.md) - [Scented Marshmallow Plushies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/make-your-own-peeps.md) - [Weighted Plush Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hugarounds.md)