The Bear Factory Honors Memphis Zoo as 2025 Customer of the Year
Recognizing excellence, passion, and partnership in creating unforgettable guest experiences
Whitmore Lake, MI — The Bear Factory is proud to announce Memphis Zoo as the recipient of the 2025 Customer of the Year Award. This recognition celebrates a partner who exemplifies outstanding collaboration, innovation, and success in bringing the “stuff a plush” experience to life.
As a new partner in 2025, Memphis Zoo launched a brand new The Bear Factory stuff a plush exhibit as part of their program kickoff. This exciting addition has provided an engaging environment for guests and members, showcasing the zoo’s commitment to delivering first-class experiences. Their worthwhile investment reflects a dedication to creating meaningful, lasting memories for every visitor who walks through their doors.
The Memphis Zoo team has embraced the program wholeheartedly and quickly demonstrated remarkable success. Their passion for delivering a premium guest experience, paired with their collaborative spirit, sets the standard for what a true two-way partnership looks like.
The Customer of the Year Award is presented to partners who embody the spirit of excellence in customer experience, demonstrate strong business performance, and build relationships rooted in trust and collaboration.
“The Bear Factory has been a hit with our guests. It brings families so much joy and has become a natural fit within the guest experience. Seeing kids light up as they create their own zoo plush has been incredible. – Amanda Moses Marketing and Communications Manager
“Memphis Zoo has quickly shown us what a perfect partnership looks like. Their team’s passion and commitment shine through in every aspect of their new experiential retail launch. The environment they’ve created for guests is nothing short of world class and their willingness to invest in creating meaningful experiences is exactly what we hope to see in our partners. It’s been a privilege to work alongside them, and we look forward to building on this success together.” – Jimmy Banish, COO, The Bear Factory
The Pawsitive Impact Awards were created to recognize customers who go above and beyond, not only driving business growth but also creating experiences that inspire joy, connection, and community.
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 the Memphis Zoo
Located in Midtown Memphis’s historic Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo has connected our community to wildlife and conservation worldwide for more than 120 years. Home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 species, the Zoo welcomes approximately one million visitors annually and is recognized as one of Tennessee’s leading attractions. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Memphis Zoo advances animal care, research, and education while inspiring a lifelong love for the natural world.