The company, formerly known as Russ Berrie and Company, was named after its founder, the late Mr. Russell Berrie (1933-2002, aged 69),[1] originated as a maker of stuffed animals, other toys and gifts.
By April 2011, The Russ Companies filed for Chapter 7 Liquidation Bankruptcy and no longer exists as an entity
Sadly, after more than 40 years of making plush toy bears and gifts, the company ceased trading and some of the designs were sold to another company. But many of their bears and soft toy animals can still currently be bought, although the range is much reduced as stocks run out.