Pikachu joins Build-A-Bear Workshop next year, awaits your hugs

The Pokémon Company announced a partnership with Build-A-Bear Workshop today to bring franchise mascot Pikachu to stores. Starting in early 2016, Pokémon trainers and lovers of cute things alike can visit the create-your-own-stuffed-animal retailer to pick out and fill up their very own Pikachu plush.

Pikachu comes with a limited edition, Build-A-Bear-branded Pokémon trading card for you to keep as a memento of the first time you met your new best friend. An additional Poké Ball hoodie accessory will be available to purchase and outfit your electric mouse in.

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers customers to pre-stuff your doll online, for those who aren't willing to go through the traditional, public "kiss its heart and spin in circles" process of stuffing Pikachu yourself. For those who choose this route, a sound clip will be included inside of your plush, along with the hoodie and a second Charizard costume.

There's no official date yet for the official Pikachu Build-A-Bear, but fans longing for cute Pokémon apparel can settle for the recently-launched Pokémon butt-celebrating product line of bags, keychains and more now available from the Japanese Pokémon Center store.