What is LUGBULK?

Question

I have heard that LEGO have (or had) a programme called LUGBULK whereby clubs can purchase bulk lots of LEGO components direct fom LEGO.

Is that true? If so, is it economical and how can I get involved?

Answer 1

The Brick Blogger describes in detail how the LUGBULKS system works.

The LUGBULK program debuted in 2009 and still operates as a pilot program for LEGO. LEGO realizes that AFOLs are the ones that make communities aware of LEGO in a wide range of venues that LEGO does not have the time or resources to reach. Therefore, supplying these AFOLs with an affordable supply of bulk pieces seems like a really good idea.

The logistics of this project are a nightmare though if you think about it. There is no way to offer this discount to every AFOL who wants cheap LEGO bricks. Therefore, the first organization level is that AFOLs must be part of a LEGO User Group (LUG). This LUG must then register every year if they want to participate.

I recommend visiting the original article for more infomation. In particular which LUG (LEGO user groups) are qualified to use LUGBULK.

Answer 2

Yes, it does exist and it is indeed a logistical nightmare, but at least it does exist.

From what I understand from the participation from the LUG I'm a member of, all participants must provide their data to LEGO and must agree not to resell parts they buy.

The participants don't buy things on their own; rather, the club is responsible to select elements it wants to buy and quantities. There are limits, but I don't know for sure which ones (I think max 80 different elements per order), so the club must find a way to make sure all its members get something they want.

The way my club chose to do it is to select some elements which are likely to please a lot of people (basic dark red bricks, for example), then they buy them with their own account and resell them to members.

The prices are somewhat cheaper than if you would call LEGO yourself (which works in certain countries, by the way) or if you used the online pick-a-brick, but I can't say by how much. And since the club as a whole is involved, it's sometimes frustrating for individuals.

As how to get involved, you will need to be a known club, in which case you're likely to already have contacts with LEGO, so use these to ask how the lugbulk works.

If you're a new club which is yet unknown from LEGO, by all means, try to make yourself known, this can bring many advantages other than the lugbulk.