The project was first announced in January 2013, when Warner Bros. formed its animation "think tank" with some directors and writers to develop animated films, Nicholas Stoller was hired by the studio to create and write Storks, while Doug Sweetland was attached to direct the film. On April 20, 2015, Andy Samberg and Kelsey Grammer were added to the voice cast of the film, and it was announced that Stoller and Sweetland would co-direct the film, while Stoller would produce the film alongside Brad Lewis. The original idea film was developed by Stoller under Warner Bros. Animation. Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele were also added to the cast who provided their voices for the film. On June 15, 2016, Jennifer Aniston was added to the cast. Sony Pictures Imageworks handled animation services for the film.
