The Pros of Buying Direct From LEGO vs. The Pros of Buying From the Other Guys

Captain_Obvious · 2022-05-26T22:34:30.000Z

Lately I've been wondering about this and would like to get feedback from everyone. A more organized approach where we submit the pros of buying direct from LEGO (stores & webstore) versus the pros of other retailers. I will compile an Excel sheet afterwards. I'm lucky to have 3 LEGO stores close by. I've built relationships that continue to pay dividends, so I know a lot of the pros.. I'll start first... LEGO Direct Pros (ymmv: most of these are from my relationships with the store's team) One Stop Shop: largest assortment LEGO only exclusive releases In-store events and give away's Displays to see the product before purchase Loyalty program for exclusive GWPs and raffles Deep product knowledge from the team Inside information from the team about corporate Inside information about new deliveries They hold new releases for me to get first They allow me to get the best boxes Sets come with the original numbered LEGO carton (if you ask) They'll let you know the hot toys with the customers to prepare for your Q4 buys They'll give you random leftover GWP's for big purchases I bought the Cantina 3 weeks after the release and they gave me the Yoda lightsaber GWP they found Customer service will make it happen Front of the line, every time The Other Guy's Pros: Big discounts Price match No quantity limits Next day delivery 3rd party credit card rewards Retailer offers a credit card Retailer's credit card has good rewards Buy Now, Pay Later (Affirm) Their loyalty programs can be better Reduced trips: ability to buy LEGO at the same you're getting groceries Chance to buy LEGO paraphernalia: rare Target displays, signs, etc Easy returns if boxes are busted Store team will give discounts for busted boxes