Norway's coziest shop for teddy bears and stuffed animals – welcome to Bamsedyra!

TL:DR

Bamsedyra was established in 2023, with a big dream, very limited funds, and a lot of passion. The company was started with little equity and support from NAV through unemployment benefits during business establishment – but with strong drive and a clear vision to create something entirely unique.

The original plan was to build the ultimate, cozy children's store in the heart of Gjøvik, combined with an online store. In September 2023, I opened the doors at Storgata 17. Since then, Bamsedyra has had premises in both Sommerfeldts gate and later in Bjørnsons gate.

Over time, it became clear that operating a physical store in Gjøvik was not sustainable. Low foot traffic and lack of framework conditions led to the decision in January 2026 to transition to online operations. Today, Bamsedyra is a pure online store, with an office address in Sommerfeldts gate 3 – and a full focus on offering the best selection online.

The whole story

Hi! My name is Josh, and I am the founder of Bamsedyra. My goal has always been to create Norway's best store for teddy bears, stuffed animals, and animal figures – and to become a natural first choice for parents, grandparents, and gift hunters who value quality, realism, and lasting value. Bamsedyra is a small, independent company based in Gjøvik, and the selection is carefully curated with a focus on genuine play value and sustainability.

I am originally from North England and grew up in a working-class environment that taught me the importance of fairness, caring, and equal opportunities. After many years in Norway, I have found a home here with my daughter, and today I speak fluent Norwegian. Starting and building Bamsedyra has been challenging – but also a passion project I am immensely proud of. I have not had investors behind me, just an idea, hard work, and the will to find solutions.

The idea for Bamsedyra arose when I was looking for a lifelike seal stuffed animal for my daughter and discovered the handmade stuffed animals from Hansa Creation. I missed a Norwegian store that truly focused on quality, realism, and products that last – and decided to create it myself.

Today, Bamsedyra offers a carefully selected assortment from Hansa Creation, Jellycat, Living Nature, Teddykompaniet, and Wild Republic, among others – in addition to Squishmallows and selected animal figures.

At Bamsedyra, I believe in honest prices, transparency, and products that bring joy – not just in the moment, but for many years to come.

Thank you for being part of the journey 💛