Bluey Fans Upset Over Sold-Out Build-A-Bear Release Amidst Scalping Concerns

The launch of the highly anticipated Bluey Build-A-Bear collection has left many fans frustrated and empty-handed. Released earlier this week, the collection featuring plush versions of Bluey and Bingo quickly sold out online, causing a wave of discontent among parents and collectors alike.

Many fans are voicing their concerns that the quick sell-out was not just due to high demand, but rather the work of scalpers who have swooped in, purchased large quantities, and are now reselling the toys at exorbitant prices on sites like eBay.

A Disappointing Experience for Many Bluey Fans

When the Bluey Build-A-Bear collection went live, excited fans rushed to grab the beloved characters. However, within minutes, the entire stock was depleted, leading to a deluge of complaints on social media.

Parents, who were eager to surprise their kids with a Bluey plush, shared their frustrations on Facebook groups and fan pages. One disgruntled parent commented, “It’s gone all gone. This was a disaster release. So many disappointed parents and little ones. Check out the scalper pricing, so terrible.”

Another fan pointed out the hefty original price tag: “As if $50 wasn’t overpriced as it is.” With no option left but to purchase from resellers, parents are now facing even steeper prices, which some have labeled as “highway robbery.” On eBay, unstuffed versions of the plush sets are already being listed for over $200, a huge markup from the original price.

The Announcement That Sparked It All

The excitement around the launch was palpable when Bluey’s official website announced the partnership with Build-A-Bear. Featuring the whole Heeler family—Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli—the collection promised to bring the characters’ playful energy and charm to life in the form of cuddly plush toys. With cute accessories like pajamas and a Bluey-themed house, the launch seemed like a dream come true for Bluey fans.

Official trailer of BuildABear and Bluey collaboration 🧸💙 #Blueypic.twitter.com/HyGGQrdeiX

— Bluey Community (Fan :3) (@BlueyCommunity) September 26, 2024

But now, only a few days later, Build-A-Bear’s website has marked the entire collection as “Sold Out,” leaving many wondering when—or if—these plushies will be restocked.

A Scalper’s Market: Unwanted Consequences of Limited Releases

The quick sell-out and subsequent appearance of high-priced listings on resale platforms have led to widespread speculation that scalpers were involved. Scalping—where people buy up popular items to resell at a profit—isn’t a new issue, but it’s a frustrating one, especially when it involves beloved children’s characters.

“Anyone who buys these from them are dumb, no matter what they’re selling,” one member of the Bluey Facebook community vented, referring to the inflated prices on resale sites. “It’s just taking advantage of people.”

Currently, eBay listings show unstuffed Bluey plush toys selling for hundreds of dollars, more than quadruple the original price. These listings also often use “limited edition” and “sold out” to justify the markup.

What’s Next for the Bluey Build-A-Bear Collection?

The Build-A-Bear website currently states that the collection is sold out with no specific restock date mentioned. While Build-A-Bear hasn’t yet released an official statement addressing the rapid sell-out or the community’s frustrations, they have been known to restock popular collections in the past. Fans are holding out hope that another wave of the Bluey plushies will become available.

But until then, it’s clear that the initial release has left a sour taste in the mouths of many Bluey enthusiasts, who are urging Build-A-Bear to put better systems in place to prevent scalpers from exploiting such launches.

How to Navigate This Setback: Tips for Disappointed Parents and Collectors

While the disappointment is still fresh, here are a few steps you can take to potentially get your hands on a Bluey Build-A-Bear plush:

1. Sign Up for Restock Alerts: Make sure you’re signed up for email alerts on the Build-A-Bear website to be the first to know if the collection is restocked.
2. Follow Official Social Media Channels: Stay updated by following Build-A-Bear’s and Bluey’s official social media channels, where announcements for future restocks are likely to be posted.
3. Avoid Overpriced Resales: As tempting as it might be to purchase from a reseller, consider waiting. There’s a good chance that Build-A-Bear will restock due to the overwhelming demand.
4. Join Bluey Fan Groups: Keep an eye on Bluey fan groups and forums where members often share information on upcoming drops and restocks.

A Bittersweet Launch for Bluey and Build-A-Bear Fans

While the Bluey Build-A-Bear collection is a testament to the show’s widespread appeal and popularity, the frustration and disappointment surrounding its release have made this launch bittersweet. Let’s hope that Build-A-Bear takes the community’s feedback into account for future releases and restocks, so every little Bluey fan gets a chance to bring home their favorite character.

Until then, keep your eyes peeled and your fingers crossed—Bluey might just make a triumphant return to Build-A-Bear stores soon!