Charles Esther
Every year, thousands of investors flock to Omaha, Nebraska, for Warren Buffett’s highly anticipated Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting.
The event not only features insightful discussions from Buffett and his business partner Charlie Munger, but also a unique shopping experience at the “Bazaar of Bargains.”
This shopping day, held at the CHI Health Center, brings together various brands under the Berkshire Hathaway umbrella, offering exclusive deals and products to shareholders.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from this year’s shareholder shopping event.
Eager Shoppers Line Up Early for Exclusive Deals
The shopping event officially began at 12 p.m. on Friday, but eager attendees were lining up as early as 8 a.m. to secure their entry passes and avoid long lines.
As soon as the doors opened, there was a rush to purchase exclusive items, with many heading straight for the Squishmallows booth.
These adorable plush toys, including limited-edition Buffett and Munger characters, were in high demand.
Many shareholders left the event with large bags filled with plush toys, showcasing the fun and whimsical side of the Berkshire Hathaway brands.
Photographs and Memories: Capturing the Moment
Aside from shopping, the event was a great opportunity for shareholders to snap photos with various Buffett-themed cardboard cutouts and giant corporate mascots.
Geico, Oriental Trading, and Squishmallows all had photo ops set up for attendees to take selfies and group pictures.
The sense of community and excitement was palpable as people made memories with their families and fellow shareholders.
Squishmallows Steals the Show
Squishmallows, owned by Jazwares, was one of the standout attractions at this year’s Bazaar of Bargains.
The brand is best known for its plush toys, but it has recently expanded into other product categories, including bedding, cosmetics, and even electric toothbrushes.
At the event, Squishmallows featured its popular Buffett plushies, as well as other characters like Pikachu.
“We bring the fun,” said Brett Ingraham, a senior director at Jazwares.
The Squishmallows booth was bustling with activity, with some attendees purchasing up to 1,000 items an hour.
Bill Hughes’ Massive Squishmallows Haul
One notable shopper, Bill Hughes, shared his experience of hauling home two dozen Squishmallows.
Hughes, who works at a financial advisory firm in Oklahoma, spent around $1,200 at the event, purchasing not only the plush toys but also Buffett-branded hats, gloves from Wells Lamont, and household goods from Pampered Chef.
Hughes’ haul highlighted the variety of products available, from toys to practical household items, making the Bazaar of Bargains a one-stop shop for Berkshire Hathaway fans.
See’s Candies: A Sweet Treat for Shareholders
See’s Candies, one of the oldest and most beloved brands under Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio, also had a strong presence at the event.
This year’s booth featured a camping theme, complete with a s’more in Buffett’s hand.
See’s offered an exclusive “Berkshire Box” filled with Toasted Marshmallow Scotchmallows, as well as other popular flavors like Chocolate Walnut Fudge.
The company brought an impressive 25,000 pounds of candy to meet the demand of shareholders, further reinforcing Buffett’s belief in the emotional connection the brand has with its customers.
Oriental Trading Offers Buffett-Themed Collectibles
Oriental Trading, known for its wide range of party supplies and novelty items, offered a variety of Buffett and Munger-themed products at their booth.
From rubber ducks to chocolate coins, bobbleheads, plush toys, and T-shirts, there was something for every fan of the Berkshire duo.
These fun, themed items added a unique touch to the shopping experience, allowing shareholders to take home a piece of Buffett’s legacy.
Pilot’s Buffett-Inspired Swag: Truckers’ Delight
Pilot Flying J, another well-known brand under Berkshire Hathaway’s umbrella, showcased their own exclusive merchandise at the event.
Among the highlights were customized trucker hats with Buffett quotes, “Berkshire Blend” coffee, and Yeti tumblers.
The booth also featured co-branded See’s products and Buffett-inspired fortune cookies.
A giant, red Pilot-branded truck, complete with a cardboard cutout of Buffett in the driver’s seat, added to the fun atmosphere of the event.
A Great Value for Time and Money
For many attendees, the Bazaar of Bargains offered excellent value for both time and money.
Claudia and her daughter Miranda, who had traveled from Miami, shared their enthusiasm about the event.
Claudia praised the quality of the products and the friendliness of the staff, while Miranda enjoyed picking up items like shoes, board games, and slime.
The event was a memorable experience for them, as it allowed them to spend quality time together while scoring great deals.
Conclusion: A Shopping Experience Like No Other
Berkshire Hathaway’s Bazaar of Bargains is much more than just a shopping event; it’s an opportunity for shareholders to connect with the brands that Warren Buffett has carefully cultivated over the years.
From Squishmallows to See’s Candies and Pilot Flying J, the variety of products on offer ensures there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re a Buffett fan or simply looking for unique deals, the Bazaar of Bargains is a highlight of the annual meeting, bringing fun, excitement, and fantastic bargains to all who attend.
