Squishmallows, which were created in 2016, have skyrocketed in popularity. According to market research firm Circana, the brand's 8-inch plush assortment was the top-selling toy in the U.S. last year
“If a picture is worth a thousand words, comparing the Squishmallows original products to Build-a-Bear’s copycats speaks volumes,” Moez Kaba, an attorney representing Kelly Toys and Jazwares, said in a statement. The companies will “vigorously defend” their intellectual property rights, he added.But Build-A-Bear clapped back with its own lawsuit Monday, claiming Skoosherz does not infringe on the Squishmallows makers' rights.
In addition to growing sales, Squishmallows have also become a sensation online. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Lady Gaga, for example, have shared images of their collections on social media. Build-A-Bear pushed back with its own complaint, which was filed in federally from Missouri, saying it does not seek to mislead consumers and that “there is in fact no actual confusion.”Attorneys for Build-A-Bear and the company did not immediately respond to requests for further comment Tuesday.