Teddy Time Blog
The Bear Factory Attains Maturing Status
[Madison Wis. November 14, 2023]– The Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council has recognized The Bear Factory at the Maturing level within its Green Masters Program®. Recognizing Wisconsin businesses that are prioritizing sustainability, the Green Masters Program® categorizes participants into four status levels that reflect the degree to which sustainability has been integrated into their business model: Adapting, Advancing, Maturing, and Green Master.
Maturing status signifies that an organization is effectively engaging in sustainability, has identified and is improving its performance in most material sustainability issues, and is integrating systems to manage its performance in those issues.
As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, The Bear Factory LLC launched the Reduce Your Carbon Pawprint initiative in 2024. This program represents our dedicated effort to identify, track, and ultimately reduce our carbon footprint as a company. Through newly established internal processes and emissions tracking, we’re taking critical steps toward understanding our environmental impact, that can be evaluated for areas of improvement.
“Sustainability is woven into the fabric of The Bear Factory’s operations,” says COO Jimmy Banish. “Our aim with the Reduce Your Carbon Pawprint initiative is to create meaningful change within our business and beyond, paving the way for responsible practices in the plush industry.”
This initiative is one of many efforts underscoring our commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for all.
Each year at the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council’s Annual Conference, the achievements of member companies are recognized and celebrated. This year’s conference was held on November 13th at Harley-Davidson Garage in Milwaukee.
The Bear Factory LLC is honored to have achieved Maturing status in the Green Masters Program®, a recognition by the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council that highlights our commitment to sustainability. This designation reflects our effective engagement in improving key sustainability practices and implementing systems to manage our environmental impact, demonstrating our dedication to making a positive difference within the plush industry.
The Green Masters Program is a comprehensive tool that helps businesses define, prioritize, measure, and manage their sustainability performance, integrating sustainable practices into their core operations. Aligned with internationally recognized standards, it drives continuous improvement and sustainable success. For over fifteen years, the program has helped companies build credible and impactful sustainability initiatives, and we are proud to see companies like The Bear Factory paving the way for a more sustainable future in the Great Lakes Region.
About The Bear Factory
Founded in 2001, The Bear Factory LLC is a Michigan-based, family-owned company specializing in high-quality, customizable plush toys. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we have established ourselves as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and design. Our unique ‘build-your-own plush’ experience allows customers to create personalized stuffed animals, fostering creativity and lasting memories.
Committed to environmental responsibility, The Bear Factory utilizes recycled materials in its products through our Plush for the Planet line. Our mission is to provide exceptional products while educating the next generation on the importance of sustainability and community engagement.
ABOUT WISCONSIN SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS COUNCIL
The WI Sustainable Business Council (WSBC) is a member organization dedicated to advancing sustainable principles and practices forward through the power of business. With a focus on collaboration and education, WSBC empowers companies and sustainability professionals to enhance their sustainability outcomes, measure progress and drive positive impacts.
Whether a company is just starting to explore sustainability or is already deeply committed to sustainable practices, WSBC meets them where they are and provides the necessary resources, expertise, and connections to help them succeed. For over 16 years, WSBC has been at the forefront of bringing businesses together to tackle sustainability challenges. By fostering a collaborative environment, WSBC encourages knowledge sharing, innovative thinking, and the development of best practices. Through this collective effort, WSBC helps businesses integrate sustainability into their strategies, unlocking greater profitability and creating a positive impact on the environment and society.
WSBC operates as an affiliate of WMEP Manufacturing Solutions, a well-established organization focused on helping manufacturers succeed in Wisconsin. This affiliation strengthens WSBC’s ability to support sustainable practices within the manufacturing sector, a key driver of the state’s economy.
To learn more visit: https://www.wisconsinsustainability.com/
Committed to environmental responsibility, The Bear Factory utilizes recycled materials in its products through our Plush for the Planet line. Our mission is to provide exceptional products while educating the next generation on the importance of sustainability and community engagement.
