First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Will we still receive the real reason behind the closure?
Brazilian stores were increasing and growing really well. It feels like that
if you didn't ban our market, we could grow even more and reach 100 stores
in the next years in our country (we are currently at 60)
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Thankyou for the extension, even tho the sellers will still be affected by this,
they now have a bit more time to sort things out
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026.
Happy you could postpone a bit!
We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Nice gesture, thanks for them.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform.
Please don't forget to reduce the nav bar heught and design with some LEGO
colors
Did you email this to affected users, or just post here? If you are taking feedback
on board, I'd hope it was emailed too.
We’ve emailed the affected sellers and have been going through all the direct
feedback and related discussions. It’s been extremely valuable for us, and we
appreciate everyone’s openness and honesty.
Did you email this to affected users, or just post here? If you are taking feedback
on board, I'd hope it was emailed too.
We’ve emailed the affected sellers and have been going through all the direct
feedback and related discussions. It’s been extremely valuable for us, and we
appreciate everyone’s openness and honesty.
I believe many of us would like to know the real reason(s) behind this, it's
obviously no small matter cutting off almost 1/3 of the world.
Did you email this to affected users, or just post here? If you are taking feedback
on board, I'd hope it was emailed too.
We’ve emailed the affected sellers and have been going through all the direct
feedback and related discussions. It’s been extremely valuable for us, and we
appreciate everyone’s openness and honesty.
I believe many of us would like to know the real reason(s) behind this, it's
obviously no small matter cutting off almost 1/3 of the world.
Most of those people don't want to use bricklink anyway though. Instead of
looking at the populations of countries, look at the BL user numbers for a more
realistic view of how many people are affected.
Did you email this to affected users, or just post here? If you are taking feedback
on board, I'd hope it was emailed too.
We’ve emailed the affected sellers and have been going through all the direct
feedback and related discussions. It’s been extremely valuable for us, and we
appreciate everyone’s openness and honesty.
I'm going to say this again for the umpteenth time. No one appreciates the
changes you're making to the site. No one wants Lego to own Bricklink. Nearly
everything you've done since you bought the site has made the experience
worse for everyone. Let someone in the community buy it back before everyone
leaves the site (and perhaps the Lego hobby itself).
I don't have the money, but I'd be willing to help with the backend work
(and contribute some of my own money) if a group of people want to go in on it.
I don't have the money, but I'd be willing to help with the backend work
(and contribute some of my own money) if a group of people want to go in on it.
Why not just join brickowl? That way there are no costs needed to buy bricklink
"back" (not that the "community" ever owned it). If everyone
is unhappy and leaving, and nobody wants LEGO to own it, then there won't
be anyone left anyway.
I don't have the money, but I'd be willing to help with the backend work
(and contribute some of my own money) if a group of people want to go in on it.
Why not just join brickowl? That way there are no costs needed to buy bricklink
"back" (not that the "community" ever owned it). If everyone
is unhappy and leaving, and nobody wants LEGO to own it, then there won't
be anyone left anyway.
I'll probably have to at some point, but I've never liked the UI on Brickowl.
Did you email this to affected users, or just post here? If you are taking feedback
on board, I'd hope it was emailed too.
We’ve emailed the affected sellers and have been going through all the direct
feedback and related discussions. It’s been extremely valuable for us, and we
appreciate everyone’s openness and honesty.
We would all appreciate some honest in return. No explanation for this decision
has been provided.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Hi Steven,
Thank you for replying. However, you mention that you strive for transparency,
but you didn't actually provide any. WHY do you think you have to remove
these users and stores?
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Do you understand though? Us buyers of bricklink, in Israel specifically have
no alternayive. Also most buying is being done with minimal need for the platform
as all shipping is handeled by the seller and payment through paypal. Might you
not consider letting buyers buy? Thanks.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Do you understand though? Us buyers of bricklink, in Israel specifically have
no alternayive. Also most buying is being done with minimal need for the platform
as all shipping is handeled by the seller and payment through paypal. Might you
not consider letting buyers buy? Thanks.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Do you understand though? Us buyers of bricklink, in Israel specifically have
no alternayive. Also most buying is being done with minimal need for the platform
as all shipping is handeled by the seller and payment through paypal. Might you
not consider letting buyers buy? Thanks.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Do you understand though? Us buyers of bricklink, in Israel specifically have
no alternayive. Also most buying is being done with minimal need for the platform
as all shipping is handeled by the seller and payment through paypal. Might you
not consider letting buyers buy? Thanks.
Is Brickowl not available in Israel?
It is not unfortunately.
Dang, that is very unfortunate. Hopefully either Bricklink will change their
mind or Brick Owl will allow you to purchase from there. I have sent an email
to Brickowl asking if they are considering opening up shipping to some of the
affected regions that are unable to use the Bricklink platform after January
31st.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Do you understand though? Us buyers of bricklink, in Israel specifically have
no alternayive. Also most buying is being done with minimal need for the platform
as all shipping is handeled by the seller and payment through paypal. Might you
not consider letting buyers buy? Thanks.
Is Brickowl not available in Israel?
It is not unfortunately.
Dang, that is very unfortunate. Hopefully either Bricklink will change their
mind or Brick Owl will allow you to purchase from there. I have sent an email
to Brickowl asking if they are considering opening up shipping to some of the
affected regions that are unable to use the Bricklink platform after January
31st.
Much appreciated. I hope the Lego community comes together to help those affected.
I wish brickowl would change but this change happened a few months back and from
what I understand it is personal not professional.
Steven, you're completely missing the point of why this decision flies in
the face of EVERYTHING that Bricklink has ever stood for.
True reasons are still nonexistent in your reply.
If nothing else, I hope you've contacted Eliska Jezek with a personal apology.
This behaviour is abhorrent and shameful of Bricklink and The Lego Group. Shame.
#bricklink25
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Don't worry about what might go unseen. Just looking at this forum in December
2025 is already showing plenty enough. I don't know what investments did
TLG made into Bricklink since 2019, but for more than 1/2 a decade, it definitely
wasn't to upgrade this forum nor Bricklinks' IT infrastructure.
And upgrading Bricklinks' IT infrastructure has nothing to do with banning
those 35 countries. So what about giving us the real reasons for this ban?
Now, if you really want to continue down that "IT excuse" road, what
about starting with uthe upgrade of this forum 1st? Upgrading this forum should
not impact the market place.
And once u got a new modern forum, then let's talk again about this ban..
because I am pretty sure that at this rate, this will save us a few years at
least.
[…]
I don't know what investments did
TLG made into Bricklink since 2019, but for more than 1/2 a decade, it definitely
wasn't to upgrade this forum nor Bricklinks' IT infrastructure.
I don’t know but you apparently weren’t here in 2019. BL’s IT infrastructure
has greatly improved since.
Yes, it was that bad.
I don’t know but you apparently weren’t here in 2019. BL’s IT infrastructure
has greatly improved since.
Yes, it was that bad.
J'ai créé ce compte il y a qq années après avoir déménagé pour le taff mais
mon compte principal français est un chouilla plus ancien.
I am not an IT professional but I do work with huge legacy codebase and I am
in almost daily contact with our IT team. For this reason, what u describe seems
like the bare minimum TLG could have done in the last 1/2 decade.
Refactoring bricklink with a powerful backend webserver written in Go, a snappy
framework agnostic frontend using partial server-side rendering and a complete
rewrite of their database schema (including migration) would have taken our team
of professionals 6 months, maybe a year. We would be able to do it for a fair
price and without needing to ban anyone.
Which is why I don't buy this rethoric of "continuous investment"
in their IT infrastructure. And I can't accept that they use such an excuse
to explain this ban.
I don’t know but you apparently weren’t here in 2019. BL’s IT infrastructure
has greatly improved since.
Yes, it was that bad.
J'ai créé ce compte il y a qq années après avoir déménagé pour le taff mais
mon compte principal français est un chouilla plus ancien.
I am not an IT professional but I do work with huge legacy codebase and I am
in almost daily contact with our IT team. For this reason, what u describe seems
like the bare minimum TLG could have done in the last 1/2 decade.
Refactoring bricklink with a powerful backend webserver written in Go, a snappy
framework agnostic frontend using partial server-side rendering and a complete
rewrite of their database schema (including migration) would have taken our team
of professionals 6 months, maybe a year. We would be able to do it for a fair
price and without needing to ban anyone.
You don't know why these regions are excluded, so you could rewrite the code
and still have to exclude them.
But it sounds like you have a great business opportunity if you can do this.
You don't know why these regions are excluded, so you could rewrite the code
and still have to exclude them.
Thank you for confirming my point. OP rambling about continuous investment in
IT infrastructure has nothing to do with this ban. So why mention it like it's
the main reason for it, all the while avoiding to give us the real answer?
But it sounds like you have a great business opportunity if you can do this.
We got enough on our plates with finance/health/military sector, and contrary
to TLG, our resources are not unlimited.
However, OP might remember next time that the AFOL community is pretty big, with
some IT specialists and computer engineers in the mix, who can't be fooled
that easily by some pseudo-technical terms.
Don't worry about what might go unseen. Just looking at this forum in December
2025 is already showing plenty enough. I don't know what investments did
TLG made into Bricklink since 2019, but for more than 1/2 a decade, it definitely
wasn't to upgrade this forum nor Bricklinks' IT infrastructure.
And upgrading Bricklinks' IT infrastructure has nothing to do with banning
those 35 countries. So what about giving us the real reasons for this ban?
Now, if you really want to continue down that "IT excuse" road, what
about starting with uthe upgrade of this forum 1st? Upgrading this forum should
not impact the market place.
And once u got a new modern forum, then let's talk again about this ban..
because I am pretty sure that at this rate, this will save us a few years at
least.
Just curious... What is your issue with this Forum? Other than the lack of notification
(needed) and the outdated look (not everything needs to be huge and blank and
white), what features are you lacking?
I admit it worked much better before they buried sub-nav. You want the same people
who 'fixed' the menus to fix this Forum too? lol
I like it and get lots of use from features like the discussion tree and embedded
images. I also prefer to live in a 'Like'-free environment.
Thank you for the update, but I must be honest: this message leaves me deeply
disappointed.
The announcement again avoids giving a clear reason for removing 35 countries
from the Marketplace. This decision affects a huge part of the global community.
To say you are committed to being “the world’s best LEGO fan community” while
removing so many countries from that very community simply does not add up.
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active. The way this decision has been communicated, first with almost no notice
and now with an apology that still offers no real explanation, feels dismissive
of the very people who helped build BrickLink into what it is today.
Extending the deadline and removing fees for a few months does not address the
core problem. Entire countries and communities are being removed without transparency,
without real dialogue, and without any roadmap for how they are expected to remain
part of the “global” community that BrickLink says it values.
If there truly are complications or concrete technical constraints behind this
move, then please respect your users enough to tell us clearly. At the moment,
it feels as if dedicated fans are being pushed aside in a way that is both unnecessary
and disappointing.
I sincerely hope BrickLink will reconsider this approach, or at least provide
the clarity and openness that a community of this size and passion deserves.
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
How do u create and build again if you can't buy?
What is Bricklink main reason of existence? Isn't it to buy and sell?
Brickowl had 1 Turkish store 1 week ago, it now has 8.
This is where the Turkish AFOL community is migrating to.
They won't go to Brickowl just to buy and then come back to Bricklink to
share. Their WL and inventories will be on Brickowl, and they won't have
any reason to come to Bricklink.
Brickowl had 1 Turkish store 1 week ago, it now has 8.
This is where the Turkish AFOL community is migrating to.
They won't go to Brickowl just to buy and then come back to Bricklink to
share. Their WL and inventories will be on Brickowl, and they won't have
any reason to come to Bricklink.
One reason would be access to the larger international market at bricklink.
You mean when they are done upgrading their IT infrastructure?
Joking, couldn't stop myself from poking fun at OP 1 more time for his lame
excuse.
I misread your original comment. I thought it was "why should they come back
(if allowed back)", I realise now it is "why should they come back to
share designs". Of course, they might also want to use studio, as many virtual
builders do as do those preparing instructions for their MOCs.
I do not agree with this framing. Without connection to the marketplace environment,
the remaining features lose most of their purpose and users are effectively pushed
to the margins of the platform.
It is not real participation when the core part of the site is no longer available.
This turns affected users into second-class members, regardless of the technical
ability to log in or view account data.
This is why so many people feel that this decision excludes them from the community,
even if some features remain visible.
In Administrative, SylvainLS writes:
In Administrative, haguznik writes:
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
This is why so many people feel that this decision excludes them from the community
Note that it's possible those Countries do NOT wish BrickLink to interact
with them anymore, at least as is, and BrickLink would've to comply. See
China?
Note that it's possible those Countries do NOT wish BrickLink to interact
with them anymore, at least as is, and BrickLink would've to comply. See
China?
I guess that if that was the reason BL admin would mention it in the message
he posted.
Note that it's possible those Countries do NOT wish BrickLink to interact
with them anymore, at least as is, and BrickLink would've to comply. See
China?
I guess that if that was the reason BL admin would mention it in the message
he posted.
Not if mentioning it publicly could affect future negotiations.
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
Why the gatekeeping? Do you work for lego? If there are answers to be given it
ahould be them giving not you.
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
Why the gatekeeping? Do you work for lego? If there are answers to be given it
ahould be them giving not you.
This is primarily a community based forum, where users ask questions and other
users answer them.
The answer to that statement was already very clearly outlined by the bricklink
announcement, so bricklink are unlikely to answer again as it is already clear.
Hence a user steps in on the community forum to point out that it has already
been covered.
Why are you attacking community members on the community forum?
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
Why the gatekeeping? Do you work for lego? If there are answers to be given it
ahould be them giving not you.
This is primarily a community based forum, where users ask questions and other
users answer them.
The answer to that statement was already very clearly outlined by the bricklink
announcement, so bricklink are unlikely to answer again as it is already clear.
Hence a user steps in on the community forum to point out that it has already
been covered.
Why are you attacking community members on the community forum?
Actually it has not been answered, as you can see by many many replies to this
thread. Why are you as a community member speaking as though you are representing
Lego but in fact know nothing of the real reasoning? Let the community have its
say, let us demand answers and demand them with us.
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
Why the gatekeeping? Do you work for lego? If there are answers to be given it
ahould be them giving not you.
This is primarily a community based forum, where users ask questions and other
users answer them.
The answer to that statement was already very clearly outlined by the bricklink
announcement, so bricklink are unlikely to answer again as it is already clear.
Hence a user steps in on the community forum to point out that it has already
been covered.
Why are you attacking community members on the community forum?
Actually it has not been answered, as you can see by many many replies to this
thread. Why are you as a community member speaking as though you are representing
Lego but in fact know nothing of the real reasoning? Let the community have its
say, let us demand answers and demand them with us.
Actually that part was answered. Sylvain pointed out that many of the activities
listed would still be possible for those users, even if the marketplace is blocked.
The poster appeared not to understand that, so a helpful bricklink member pointed
this out.
I am not representing LEGO, I am not representing the community, I am representing
myself. It is correct that I know nothing of the real reasoning, which is why
I have said it would be good to know what this is, but I understand that LEGO
might need to keep this confidential. I also believe that LEGO should have emailed
something immanent like this rather than a forum announcement as some people
don't even notice for a week until other sites publicise it.
[…]
Many of us are passionate, long-time fans who rely on BrickLink not only for
buying parts, but for creating, building, sharing, and keeping the community
active.
What you won’t be able to do is buy and sell. Creating, building, sharing, and
keeping the community active, you’ll still be able to do, because you’ll still
be able to have accounts (“you’ll still be able to manage your WL,” “you’ll still
be able to access your store invntory”).
Why the gatekeeping? Do you work for lego? If there are answers to be given it
ahould be them giving not you.
This is primarily a community based forum, where users ask questions and other
Why are you excusing lego? If you have nothing to gain or lose simply stop answering
and speculating, you are only doing lego a favor by drawing the fire away from
them. Let them deal with this.
users answer them.
The answer to that statement was already very clearly outlined by the bricklink
announcement, so bricklink are unlikely to answer again as it is already clear.
Hence a user steps in on the community forum to point out that it has already
been covered.
Why are you attacking community members on the community forum?
Actually it has not been answered, as you can see by many many replies to this
thread. Why are you as a community member speaking as though you are representing
Lego but in fact know nothing of the real reasoning? Let the community have its
say, let us demand answers and demand them with us.
Actually that part was answered. Sylvain pointed out that many of the activities
listed would still be possible for those users, even if the marketplace is blocked.
The poster appeared not to understand that, so a helpful bricklink member pointed
this out.
I am not representing LEGO, I am not representing the community, I am representing
myself. It is correct that I know nothing of the real reasoning, which is why
I have said it would be good to know what this is, but I understand that LEGO
might need to keep this confidential. I also believe that LEGO should have emailed
something immanent like this rather than a forum announcement as some people
don't even notice for a week until other sites publicise it.
Would it be possible at least to use the platform from one of the banned countries
and send the orders to another country? For example USA. At least you must leave
us triangulate the shippíng.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
I am sorry to say but all that I hear in this statement is the Familiar words
or George Orwell’s Animal farm echoing across the LEGO community. All are equal
to ‘play well’, but some are more equal then others.
Today, I have lost what believe I had in LEGO as a company. I understand brand
selling in some countries but removing the second market as well. Clearly Some
Are more equal then others and the worst part, LEGO just don't care, or they
might have made some effort to stand with the believe of ‘play well’ and equality.
This statement is all window dressing. Money not a community has become the driver
of all and that from a company that as record profit margins.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
This captures exactly what I feel, and I believe many others share the same frustration.
In Administrative, elma_sa writes:
I am sorry to say but all that I hear in this statement is the Familiar words
or George Orwell’s Animal farm echoing across the LEGO community. All are equal
to ‘play well’, but some are more equal then others.
Today, I have lost what believe I had in LEGO as a company. I understand brand
selling in some countries but removing the second market as well. Clearly Some
Are more equal then others and the worst part, LEGO just don't care, or they
might have made some effort to stand with the believe of ‘play well’ and equality.
This statement is all window dressing. Money not a community has become the driver
of all and that from a company that as record profit margins.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
What is sad about this whole closer to some countries is that you have, and will
destroy what "Bricklink" is, It is an international comunity of people
from all walks of life, that no matter what their roots, come together as equals,
to enjoy 1 common thing.
Dan Jezek designed this site, because of what you are about to do. Control who
and where.He created this community To enable anyone, anywhere to build. To ""Play
Well"", his family and this community know this and when he passed his
family kept it going for everyone. Keeping his Communtiy dreams alive.
You come now, with your own plans, "to improve it" to "make it better",
your coporate Agenda. To increase Profit, and this, "small percentage",
the poor countries, the ones in the bottom of sales. Cut Cut.
You will forever destroyed this community, and for some, this passion.
Find a way.
Is all we have asked.
In Administrative, haguznik writes:
This captures exactly what I feel, and I believe many others share the same frustration.
In Administrative, elma_sa writes:
I am sorry to say but all that I hear in this statement is the Familiar words
or George Orwell’s Animal farm echoing across the LEGO community. All are equal
to ‘play well’, but some are more equal then others.
Today, I have lost what believe I had in LEGO as a company. I understand brand
selling in some countries but removing the second market as well. Clearly Some
Are more equal then others and the worst part, LEGO just don't care, or they
might have made some effort to stand with the believe of ‘play well’ and equality.
This statement is all window dressing. Money not a community has become the driver
of all and that from a company that as record profit margins.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
I am sorry to say but all that I hear in this statement is the Familiar words
or George Orwell’s Animal farm echoing across the LEGO community. All are equal
to ‘play well’, but some are more equal then others.
Today, I have lost what believe I had in LEGO as a company. I understand brand
selling in some countries but removing the second market as well. Clearly Some
Are more equal then others and the worst part, LEGO just don't care, or they
might have made some effort to stand with the believe of ‘play well’ and equality.
This statement is all window dressing. Money not a community has become the driver
of all and that from a company that as record profit margins.
What we don't know is why and it may be there are other reasons. However
money is almost certainly the driver as LEGO are a business.
This is speculation of one possibility ... One scenario is that they can make
more money by getting more sets distributed into those regions to the general
population. But to do so, they are using a third party distributor that wants
to be the only distributor and not have any LEGO companies operate in competition
in the same area. If that is the case, the public in those area may benefit as
they get more opportunity for online orders or access to certified stores, but
at the cost of the secondary market to the few who want it.
Hey BrickLink, thanks for the update but honestly, this whole thing is still
pretty disappointing for a lot of us.
The way this has been handled just feels rough. First, no warning, and now this
apology that still skips the real explanation. It feels like you're dismissing
the people who made BrickLink what it is.
Pushing the deadline back and cutting fees for a few months is not really dealing
with the core problem: entire communities are being cut off without any real
transparency or a plan for how we can stay "global."
The biggest issue is you still haven't given a straight answer on why you're
dumping 35 countries from the Marketplace. That's a huge slice of the world's
fans.
You say the goal is to be "the world's best LEGO fan community,"
right? But removing so many countries just doesn't make any sense. It's
like you're shrinking the community, not making it better.
Lots of us are passionate, longtime fans. We don't just use BrickLink to
buy parts; we use it to create, build, share, and stay connected. It's how
the community works.
And seriously, LUGs need this platform. Like here in Cape Town, the LUG is super
strong, and we rely heavily on BrickLink for parts we can't get locally.
Cutting us off messes up everything.
If there are complicated technical issues or constraints, please, just be
clear with us. Respect your users enough to tell the truth. Right now, it just
feels like dedicated fans are being abandoned, and that's genuinely disappointing.
I really hope BrickLink thinks about this again. We just want the clarity and
openness a community this size deserves.
As a dedicated user who has been part of this community for over 20 years, I
am deeply disappointed and saddened by this update.
The justification regarding "IT infrastructure upgrades" is honestly
hard to accept. Taiwan is a global powerhouse in IT technology and a free, democratic
society (ranked 2nd in Asia, just behind Japan). Furthermore, the LEGO market
here is thriving, with 5 LEGO Certified Stores (LCS) opening consecutively since
2019. It seems contradictory that a technologically advanced and growing
market would be an obstacle to the platform's upgrades.
It is difficult not to speculate if there are other factors involved. Since the
LEGO Group acquired BrickLink, we noticed Taiwan was quietly reclassified from
a "Country" to a "Region" in user profiles. I sincerely hope
this decision isn't being influenced by non-technical or external pressures.
We may never know the full truth behind this decision, but I sincerely hope there
is still room for reconsideration. Please do not easily abandon a loyal community
that has supported this platform for decades.
Thank you for the past 20 years. It is truly a shame that our loyalty is being
repaid with such a cold and unconvincing decision. We deserved better.
Furthermore, the LEGO market
here is thriving, with 5 LEGO Certified Stores (LCS) opening consecutively since
2019. It seems contradictory that a technologically advanced and growing
market would be an obstacle to the platform's upgrades.
Isn't this possibly part of the issue. These are not LEGO owned stores, but
run by a third party. Speculation ... It could be that they have exclusive distribution
rights but are being undercut by bricklink sellers in the country (or international
sellers) that can sell the same sets imported from elsewhere. And the third party
is not happy that LEGO is enabling this through bricklink. So either LEGO cut
bricklink marketplace access or they lose the third party distributor. The former
is bad for the relatively few people that want to use bricklink whereas the latter
is bad for the general population that shop at the LEGO store or online if the
distributor offers that.
Furthermore, the LEGO market
here is thriving, with 5 LEGO Certified Stores (LCS) opening consecutively since
2019. It seems contradictory that a technologically advanced and growing
market would be an obstacle to the platform's upgrades.
Isn't this possibly part of the issue. These are not LEGO owned stores, but
run by a third party. Speculation ... It could be that they have exclusive distribution
rights but are being undercut by bricklink sellers in the country (or international
sellers) that can sell the same sets imported from elsewhere. And the third party
is not happy that LEGO is enabling this through bricklink. So either LEGO cut
bricklink marketplace access or they lose the third party distributor. The former
is bad for the relatively few people that want to use bricklink whereas the latter
is bad for the general population that shop at the LEGO store or online if the
distributor offers that.
Business throws up tough choices.
This partial info is ancient and has almost certainly evolved, but the heart
of it may not have changed. Maybe someone with access to a current LCS agreement
would care to share. Concerned users may want to check their region to see if
stores are LEGO, LCS, or a mix (France?). Emphasis mine. :
How does LCS operate with a partner?
The LEGO Group offers it’s Certified Store Partners a “value proposition”
to operate LCS stores within a defined territory. The benefits to the partner
include:
- Officially licensed to use the LEGO brand name and have LEGO logo at the
store front
- Regional exclusivity to potentially grow the retail network expansion
- The partner will be a ‘preferred’ customer within the LEGO framework
(for example, will be given exclusive product rights)
- The stores will be designed by The LEGO Group to ensure design consistency
and compliance
- The partner stores will participate in training programs developed by The
LEGO Group
Yes, exactly, and these bits are likely to be problematic ...
- Regional exclusivity to potentially grow the retail network expansion
- The partner will be a ‘preferred’ customer within the LEGO framework
(for example, will be given exclusive product rights)
I don't think I'd be very happy if I had an exclusivity agreement and
it turned out LEGO was also supplying product to other companies outside my region
that were then using a LEGO owned site to sell into my region.
If LEGO didn't own bricklink, it would be "grey market" imports and
possibly not much they can do. But when LEGO are facilitating the grey imports,
it is another matter.
Yes, exactly, and these bits are likely to be problematic ...
- Regional exclusivity to potentially grow the retail network expansion
- The partner will be a ‘preferred’ customer within the LEGO framework
(for example, will be given exclusive product rights)
I don't think I'd be very happy if I had an exclusivity agreement and
it turned out LEGO was also supplying product to other companies outside my region
that were then using a LEGO owned site to sell into my region.
If LEGO didn't own bricklink, it would be "grey market" imports and
possibly not much they can do. But when LEGO are facilitating the grey imports,
it is another matter.
Of course, all speculation.
Of course....
Now if TLG would just provide a copy of the TLG/BL Purchase Agreement, the Parent-Subsidiary
Operating Agreement between TLG & BL, the 3-5 Yr TLG/BL Marketing Plan, and a
current copy of standard LCS Agreement, we could avoid some of this idle speculation.
Now if TLG would just provide a copy of the TLG/BL Purchase Agreement, the Parent-Subsidiary
Operating Agreement between TLG & BL, the 3-5 Yr TLG/BL Marketing Plan, and a
current copy of standard LCS Agreement, we could avoid some of this idle speculation.
An order form and a discount voucher would be nice too
So you panicked after the uproar, and now we have a delayed kill sentence of
a couple of months? Cynically, I'd say "Thank you".
You are unashamed to say you are willing to throw 35 LEGO communities into the
trash for the next "25 years"...
Sorry, this is unacceptable!
35 communities that don't count because they are not, what? Profitable enough?
Active enough? What if Lego didn't exist at all in these countries? Would
LEGO benefit from that?
Your excuses for this cruel action are pathetic and infuriating. Your "cheerful
message" does not align with the reality you plan for us.
You are under Lego ownership so you know quite well we can't buy parts directly
from Lego, or get the Bricklink sets without your site. This is already a serious
handicap for Lego lovers in the 35 countries.
You offer no solutions and we will be cut off from the global LEGO community
because of your actions. And yet you still don't say really why this decision!
I really don't believe your excuses. I think it is GREED that pushes this
decision. Lego has shown serious signs of greed in the past year.
Bricklink was sold to Lego, not so that it can "murder" the secondary
market in a sixth of the countries around the world!
As I have written before, living in a country that only has certified stores,
we are already punished with a 35% price increase compared to Lego-owned store
countries.
I expect you to solve the issue for the Lego communities in the 35 banned countries.
I expect Lego to come out and ensure that worldwide Lego customers are treated
fairly.
Banning a sixth of the world's countries is unacceptable.
I think your message will not dissipate the anger that AFOL communities have
felt since your first announcement.
I have been wondering in the past few days how deeply I have been emotionally
invested in Lego, and whether I should quit this hobby that has taken so much
of my time and devotion over the past few years. I will clearly find it very
difficult to create MOCs without the ability to buy the parts I need. This decision
of yours feels arbitrary and cruel. I can only strongly suggest Lego and you
reconsider your actions, and hope you change this one sided cruel decision.
As I have written before, living in a country that only has certified stores,
we are already punished with a 35% price increase compared to Lego-owned store
countries.
As I have written before, living in a country that only has certified stores,
we are already punished with a 35% price increase compared to Lego-owned store
countries.
As I have written before, living in a country that only has certified stores,
we are already punished with a 35% price increase compared to Lego-owned store
countries.
Your bricklink account is registered in the USA.
Thank you Karen.
You are welcome Doris.
They have already got a way around the buying ban - pretend they are in another
country.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
I got you. I got that you didn't pay attention to us LEGO fans at all. I
got that you didn't even read all these messages. Thanks to delaying the
death sentence for BrickLink for another 2 (two) months.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
you might be striving for transparency, but you're neglecting it entirely.
you have yet to address the reason behind this in any meaningful way. saying
that you're investing in the platform is at best a platitude, but is certainly
not a reason to discontinue business in any country. just be honest with the
community.
Poor Dan Jezek, he would be so pissed off seeing what you are doing with his
legacy.
To the community- it's time to move away to another marketplace or even create
one where everyone is truly welcomed, no matter which place around the world.
Bricks are for everyone to play with!
I canceled all my pre-orders and I encourage you to do the same.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Don't choose the easy way out. Please honor the legacy that connects us.
Dear Steven and the BrickLink Team,
Regarding this announcement, I would like to raise four key points that the management
needs to hear:
1. It is likely Regulatory, not "Distributor Conflict." Many speculate
this is to protect local LEGO Certified Stores (LCS). I disagree. Experienced
AFOLs know that BrickLink and Retail Stores are complementary. We buy new sets
at retail, and we buy parts/retired sets on BrickLink. The ecosystem works. The
real reason clearly points to Tax and Regulatory Compliance costs, not market
cannibalization.
2. A dangerous precedent for the whole world. This shouldn't just
be about Taiwan or the 35 affected countries. E-commerce regulations are tightening
globally. If your strategy is to ban any country where compliance becomes "too
difficult" or "too expensive" for your IT system, what happens next
year? Do we expect more countries to be banned annually? Are you planning to
shrink BrickLink until it only serves the few countries with the simplest laws?
3. Transparency: Let us help you fix it. If specific local tax laws or
regulations are making the IT design impossible, please list the specific obstacles
for each country.
Don't just say "IT upgrade." Tell us what regulation is blocking
you.
Let the community in these countries take this data to our governments or representatives
to seek a solution.
Alternatively, have you considered a unified global account management system
rather than a fragmented, region-based structure to mitigate these local hurdles?
4. Profit vs. The Spirit of BrickLink. We respect that the company's
operational goal is naturally to pursue the highest profit. However, we sincerely
hope you preserve the true spirit of BrickLink and do not destroy it so easily.
We lived through the passing of BrickLink's founder, Dan Jezek. Although
he is gone, his vision of connecting the world and his spirit of sharing and
co-prosperity has always remained with us. Please honor that legacy. Don't
let a calculation on a spreadsheet erase a bridge that connects the world.
1. It is likely Regulatory, not "Distributor Conflict." Many speculate
this is to protect local LEGO Certified Stores (LCS). I disagree. Experienced
AFOLs know that BrickLink and Retail Stores are complementary. We buy new sets
at retail, and we buy parts/retired sets on BrickLink. The ecosystem works. The
real reason clearly points to Tax and Regulatory Compliance costs, not market
cannibalization.
Yet there are people that buy current sets on bricklink (experienced AFOLs also
know that), especially in countries where retail stores are expensive, and even
more so for exclusive sets, and the buyer can import the current sets they want
at a lower price.
Yet there are people that buy current sets on bricklink (experienced AFOLs also
know that), especially in countries where retail stores are expensive, and even
more so for exclusive sets, and the buyer can import the current sets they want
at a lower price.
You are absolutely right.
I think you hit on a very valid point. The tension between local distributors
(LCS) and the global marketplace is real, and it makes perfect business sense
for LEGO to want to protect its retail partners from being undercut by cheaper
imports.
However, if protectionism were the only factor, I wonder why countries like Australia
or Switzerland aren't on the list?
Australia is famous for high retail prices, and fans there constantly
import cheaper sets from Europe/USA, which hurts their local stores just as much.
Yet, they remain open.
Hong Kong is a major hub for competitively priced sets and parallel imports.
If the goal was to stop the flow of cheap sets, it would be a prime target. Yet,
it remains open.
This leads me to believe that while protecting distributors is definitely part
of the motivation, the deciding factor for this specific list of 35 countries
might still be the "Cost of Compliance" (IT/Tax complexity).
Australia and Hong Kong have standard or simple tax systems (Easy Mode for IT),
whereas Taiwan and many others on this list have unique, complex digital regulations
(Hard Mode). It seems they only banned the markets where the "IT headache"
outweighed the profit.
I think you hit on a very valid point. The tension between local distributors
(LCS) and the global marketplace is real, and it makes perfect business sense
for LEGO to want to protect its retail partners from being undercut by cheaper
imports.
However, if protectionism were the only factor, I wonder why countries like Australia
or Switzerland aren't on the list?
Australia is famous for high retail prices, and fans there constantly
import cheaper sets from Europe/USA, which hurts their local stores just as much.
Yet, they remain open.
The ones in Australia are run by LEGO themselves aren't they (?), rather
than through third party partners. So the issue goes away.
I imagine it is far more complex, and it wouldn't surprise me at all if it
was a combination of many factors including third party owners of LCS, tax conformity,
possibly even implementation of consumer rights, etc.
And they say something is developing / happening behind the scenes with the infrastructure
so it wouldn't surprise me if something changes with payment processing
or sales tax / VAT collection or tax reporting or order management. Bricklink
is still rather behind the times with problem orders compared to sites like eBay.
I dread to think what they might try to do but online selling has changed a lot
in even just the past five years and they look quite unprofessional now.
1. It is likely Regulatory, not "Distributor Conflict." Many speculate
this is to protect local LEGO Certified Stores (LCS). I disagree. Experienced
AFOLs know that BrickLink and Retail Stores are complementary. We buy new sets
at retail, and we buy parts/retired sets on BrickLink. The ecosystem works. The
real reason clearly points to Tax and Regulatory Compliance costs, not market
cannibalization.
Yet there are people that buy current sets on bricklink (experienced AFOLs also
know that), especially in countries where retail stores are expensive, and even
more so for exclusive sets, and the buyer can import the current sets they want
at a lower price.
I would also speculate that the additional hard data TLG obtained via the "account
integration" gave them more clarity when trying to correlate individual users
and regions activity through TLG/LCS retail vs BL. Tying these buying/selling
behaviors together could be...informative.
In Administrative, yorbrick writes:
I would also speculate that the additional hard data TLG obtained via the "account
integration" gave them more clarity when trying to correlate individual users
and regions activity through TLG/LCS retail vs BL. Tying these buying/selling
behaviors together could be...informative.
It seems they also cut off the opportunity for the buyers from affected countries
to pretend they are from another country by simply changing their region on BL.
In Administrative, yorbrick writes:
I would also speculate that the additional hard data TLG obtained via the "account
integration" gave them more clarity when trying to correlate individual users
and regions activity through TLG/LCS retail vs BL. Tying these buying/selling
behaviors together could be...informative.
It seems they also cut off the opportunity for the buyers from affected countries
to pretend they are from another country by simply changing their region on BL.
Isn't that still possible? We've had at least one person with a USA based
bricklink account complaining about their country being locked out.
In Administrative, yorbrick writes:
I would also speculate that the additional hard data TLG obtained via the "account
integration" gave them more clarity when trying to correlate individual users
and regions activity through TLG/LCS retail vs BL. Tying these buying/selling
behaviors together could be...informative.
It seems they also cut off the opportunity for the buyers from affected countries
to pretend they are from another country by simply changing their region on BL.
Isn't that still possible? We've had at least one person with a USA based
bricklink account complaining about their country being locked out.
The thing is, if you change the region for disguise, you won't see immediately
if the seller's store ships to your actual country. You'll have to look
into store's terms instead.
[…]
The thing is, if you change the region for disguise, you won't see immediately
if the seller's store ships to your actual country. You'll have to look
into store's terms instead.
Er, you really think stores will put in their terms “eh, we still ship to XYZ,
even if it’s against the ToS, just ask us, wink-wink”?
[…]
The thing is, if you change the region for disguise, you won't see immediately
if the seller's store ships to your actual country. You'll have to look
into store's terms instead.
Er, you really think stores will put in their terms “eh, we still ship to XYZ,
even if it’s against the ToS, just ask us, wink-wink”?
[…]
The thing is, if you change the region for disguise, you won't see immediately
if the seller's store ships to your actual country. You'll have to look
into store's terms instead.
Er, you really think stores will put in their terms “eh, we still ship to XYZ,
even if it’s against the ToS, just ask us, wink-wink”?
That's why i'm saying they actually cut that out.
Good. Buyers that change their region then put a different country in their address
should be banned. They avoid tax, they make it difficult for sellers when it
comes to postage costs, and if a seller decides not to ship to or cannot ship
to a specific country, the buyer needs to respect that.
[…]
The thing is, if you change the region for disguise, you won't see immediately
if the seller's store ships to your actual country. You'll have to look
into store's terms instead.
Er, you really think stores will put in their terms “eh, we still ship to XYZ,
even if it’s against the ToS, just ask us, wink-wink”?
That's why i'm saying they actually cut that out.
No, that’s not what you said / what I was answering to.
You’re saying (it’s still quoted above) that if you claim to be from, say, Poland,
and not Ukraine, you won’t know if the store will ship to Ukraine, and that you’ll
have to look in the terms instead.
That’s nonsensical.
Let’s look at the situation after January 2026:
— Members in Ukraine won’t be able to buy from / sell to anywhere.
— Members elsewhere won’t be able to buy from / sell to Ukraine.
— If you leave your account in Ukraine, all the stores will say they don’t ship
to you.
— If you change your account to Poland, stores will say they ship to Poland…
but no one will say in their terms “eh, we still ship to Ukraine,” because it’ll
be against the ToS.
I repeat: whether you change your account or not, no store will say they ship
to Ukraine.
[…]
I would also speculate that the additional hard data TLG obtained via the "account
integration" gave them more clarity when trying to correlate individual users
and regions activity through TLG/LCS retail vs BL. Tying these buying/selling
behaviors together could be...informative.
The account integration was in late September. Not everyone integrated on day
1 (many because they couldn’t ).
2 months of data at max is really not enough to just get data.
Plus, you really don’t know how big corporations work if you think they make
decisions in less than 6 months.
I haven’t worked _in_ corporations but _with_ some of them. It takes at least
6 months between each of the following steps:
1. “eh, we’d need that fast,”
2. “sure we should do that,”
3. “we really do need that,”
4. “let’s do something now!”
5. “yes, let’s do something,”
6. “okay, we’re doing it,”
7. they actually sign something
Total: more than 3 years… and that was something small for them and that they
really needed.
Pfft, just look at the account integration, we first heard of it more than 3
years ago, and it was already decided then.
Don't choose the easy way out. Please honor the legacy that connects us.
Dear Steven and the BrickLink Team,
Regarding this announcement, I would like to raise four key points that the management
needs to hear:
1. It is likely Regulatory, not "Distributor Conflict." Many speculate
this is to protect local LEGO Certified Stores (LCS). I disagree. Experienced
AFOLs know that BrickLink and Retail Stores are complementary. We buy new sets
at retail, and we buy parts/retired sets on BrickLink. The ecosystem works. The
real reason clearly points to Tax and Regulatory Compliance costs, not market
cannibalization.
2. A dangerous precedent for the whole world. This shouldn't just
be about Taiwan or the 35 affected countries. E-commerce regulations are tightening
globally. If your strategy is to ban any country where compliance becomes "too
difficult" or "too expensive" for your IT system, what happens next
year? Do we expect more countries to be banned annually? Are you planning to
shrink BrickLink until it only serves the few countries with the simplest laws?
3. Transparency: Let us help you fix it. If specific local tax laws or
regulations are making the IT design impossible, please list the specific obstacles
for each country.
Don't just say "IT upgrade." Tell us what regulation is blocking
you.
Let the community in these countries take this data to our governments or representatives
to seek a solution.
Alternatively, have you considered a unified global account management system
rather than a fragmented, region-based structure to mitigate these local hurdles?
4. Profit vs. The Spirit of BrickLink. We respect that the company's
operational goal is naturally to pursue the highest profit. However, we sincerely
hope you preserve the true spirit of BrickLink and do not destroy it so easily.
We lived through the passing of BrickLink's founder, Dan Jezek. Although
he is gone, his vision of connecting the world and his spirit of sharing and
co-prosperity has always remained with us. Please honor that legacy. Don't
let a calculation on a spreadsheet erase a bridge that connects the world.
Thank you for writing this well-reasoned and factual response. You've cut
to the core of the problem here, and I would like to see these issues addressed
as well.
I would prefer to be told: "We have reasons, but we are not going to be sharing
them with you." Rather than "We have reasons, but will give you some
answer that sounds like we answered but didn't." That's not what
transparency really is. People are smart and can see through this.
But I think the head of BL showing up here and responding at all is something?
A step toward better communication maybe. I think they are well-meaning but still
struggling with the practical aspects of how the site works and affects people.
The only true thing in their statement is probably that they feel like they don't
want to do this but have to. For reasons.
So, BrickLink, please read this post and reconsider! Was your decision based
on expediency or could some of the points raised here make a difference?
If ever builder, buyer and seller truly does matter to you, you have got to completely
reconsider this decision. This is shameful behaviour from an organisation like
yourselves. My personal LEGO journey started buying Bricklink parts in South
Africa - and has lead to my full time job. To think that this will no longer
be possible for future young LEGO fans all around the world is disgraceful.
Otherwise I would strongly suggest changing your statement that you are committed
to making 'BrickLink the world’s best LEGO® fan community' to what you
really mean:
'You are committed to making Bricklink the wealthy West's best LEGO®
fan community.'
Let the voice of the community be heard, and make the right decision.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
I 100% agree they announced it poorly and I wish this isn’t something that had
to happened, it will hurt all members, and I hope as time continues, lego can
operate in the countries affected again, but as others have said, bricklink won’t
just cut off a massive % of the market without a really good reason, even tho
their rollout could possibly go down in a “Top 10 worst announcements in corporate
history”
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
If Lego can't do it, even with their billions, how come BrickOwl can? I don't
know much about them or their set up, but I've not heard any mention of countries
no longer being supported by them (yet?). I would therefore assume it's about
something else.
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
If Lego can't do it, even with their billions, how come BrickOwl can? I don't
know much about them or their set up, but I've not heard any mention of countries
no longer being supported by them (yet?). I would therefore assume it's about
something else.
Lego is an international company, that faces much more scrutiny then a (relatively
in comparison) tiny company like brickowl
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
If Lego can't do it, even with their billions, how come BrickOwl can? I don't
know much about them or their set up, but I've not heard any mention of countries
no longer being supported by them (yet?). I would therefore assume it's about
something else.
As far as I know some countries are also blocked on there too, but not all the
same.
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
If Lego can't do it, even with their billions, how come BrickOwl can? I don't
know much about them or their set up, but I've not heard any mention of countries
no longer being supported by them (yet?). I would therefore assume it's about
something else.
Or they don't know about it, or don't have sellers in some countries
or are small enough not to be noticed.
Yes LEGO has billions, and that means they have to be ultra careful when it comes
to compliance if they can be fined based on their global turnover.
You really can't think why they could have to post this "decision"?
Posting in nice but that's not what I asked.
Why BL is kicking 35 countries out? I didn't understood the reason
Almost 100% likely related to some rules/regulations in the affected countries.
IE new laws that have passsed forcing marketplaces to operate in certain ways
or collect specific taxes, others is likely due to wanting to avoid association
with select countries due to pressure from some government/authority, others
could be due to other reasons. These countries are likely not being removed for
any 1 reason, and some many be for a host of reasons, so to simplify things that
put it “simply” in the corporate way of “we can’t service them at this time”.
I 100% agree they announced it poorly and I wish this isn’t something that had
to happened, it will hurt all members, and I hope as time continues, lego can
operate in the countries affected again, but as others have said, bricklink won’t
just cut off a massive % of the market without a really good reason, even tho
their rollout could possibly go down in a “Top 10 worst announcements in corporate
history”
They probably also did some maths. I know some people are saying that 30% of
the world have been banned from bricklink. One reality is the number of stores
affected is quite small at under 400, for perspective less than the number of
stores in Belgium. Is it devasting for those stores individually? Absolutely
and they should definitely have had more time to sell off inventory or shift
business elsewhere. But presumably the costs of bricklink doing business in some
countries, especially if they have to have a legal representative in that country,
don't add up when there are so few stores in some countries. Imagine having
to set up software and arrange tax collection to be able to comply with online
tax collection and/or reporting for a country with just 5 stores. And for context
16 of the countries have 5 or fewer stores. The numbers are similar on the buyer
side, I think it is about a couple of percent of accounts that are affected.
Again devastating for any active buyers that use the marketplace, but I don’t
think they would class it as a massive percentage when thinking about impact.
The number of accounts in the whole of South America is about the same as the
Czech Republic (or 3/4 of Belgium). So again if they have to set up bespoke arrangements
for tax collection for buyers in each of those countries when so little is coming
in, I can understand why some get blocked. And yes, why those markets are not
seen as a priority compared to ones where the problem doesn't exist or the
numbers are large enough it is worth them sorting it. There is an obvious reason
why they sorted tax collection in USA, Canada, EU, UK, Norway, Australia, first.
Like it or not, they know their core market. Of course, they also know the number
of active accounts rather than just raw user numbers which include many zero
feedback accounts.
I doubt the effect on LEGO's finance will be noticeable given how few people
have heard of, let alone use, bricklink compared to the numbers that buy LEGO.
Deciding where to put one new retail store is probably a bigger decision than
this. Are regular customers in UAE, for example, going to boycott buying LEGO
from the certified stores in Dubai because they cannot buy at bricklink? I doubt
it. Maybe if they are one of the 1500 BL accounts in UAE and want to make a stand
(although the majority don't seem to have made a purchase here). I wonder
what the total footfall in all the certified stores in UAE is per day compared
to the number of purchases on BL from UAE.
They probably also did some maths. I know some people are saying that 30% of
the world have been banned from bricklink. One reality is the number of stores
affected is quite small at under 400, for perspective less than the number of
stores in Belgium.
What is sad about this whole closer to some countries is that you have, and will
destroy what "Bricklink" is, It is an international comunity of people
from all walks of life, that no matter what their roots, come together as equals,
to enjoy 1 common thing.
Dan Jezek designed this site, because of what you are about to do. Control who
and where.He created this community To enable anyone, anywhere to build. To ""Play
Well"", his family and this community know this and when he passed his
family kept it going for everyone. Keeping his Communtiy dreams alive.
You come now, with your own plans, "to improve it" to "make it better",
your coporate Agenda. To increase Profit, and this, "small percentage",
the poor countries, the ones in the bottom of sales. Cut Cut.
You will forever destroyed this community, and for some, this passion.
Find a way.
Is all we have asked.
In Administrative, Admin writes:
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Dan Jezek designed this site, because of what you are about to do. Control who
and where.He created this community To enable anyone, anywhere to build. To ""Play
Well"", his family and this community know this and when he passed his
family kept it going for everyone. Keeping his Communtiy dreams alive.
Remember that they sold it. And once sold, it belongs to the new owner to do
with as they want.
Your account wasn’t registered until after LEGO bought it, so it has been LEGO's
property throughout your entire membership.
Dan Jezek designed this site, because of what you are about to do. Control who
and where.He created this community To enable anyone, anywhere to build. To ""Play
Well"", his family and this community know this and when he passed his
family kept it going for everyone. Keeping his Communtiy dreams alive.
Remember that they sold it. And once sold, it belongs to the new owner to do
with as they want.
Your account wasn’t registered until after LEGO bought it, so it has been LEGO's
property throughout your entire membership.
your lack of empathy to all the people who are suffering from this horrible,
horrible decision is really beyond me.
as someone commented to you before, if you don't have something of value
to add to the discussion, than you really don't have to.
as you are not affected by this decision, let those who are speak their mind.
thank you for your attention to this matter
Dan Jezek designed this site, because of what you are about to do. Control who
and where.He created this community To enable anyone, anywhere to build. To ""Play
Well"", his family and this community know this and when he passed his
family kept it going for everyone. Keeping his Communtiy dreams alive.
Remember that they sold it. And once sold, it belongs to the new owner to do
with as they want.
Your account wasn’t registered until after LEGO bought it, so it has been LEGO's
property throughout your entire membership.
your lack of empathy to all the people who are suffering from this horrible,
horrible decision is really beyond me.
as someone commented to you before, if you don't have something of value
to add to the discussion, than you really don't have to.
as you are not affected by this decision, let those who are speak their mind.
thank you for your attention to this matter
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
This is such an insincere bunch of nonsense. Your message upsets me more than
the closure announcement did.
Not every builder, buyer and seller matters to you. If they really did matter,
you wouldn't be excluding them. Let's call it what it is, a blatant PR/politician
lie. And no, you don't live in these countries, so no you have absolutely
no idea what the impact will be on these communities. (I need you to really hear
this. I hope it keeps you up at night before you eventually forget about it and
return to your daily struggles of having to choose which flavor of coffee you
should buy for the day.)
I wish you well with your future for the next 25 years, but I, and many others
won't be there to share it with you.
I've cancelled my Star Trek set pre order, and I won't be buying any
more overpriced plastic bricks going forward. I'm sure many others will follow
out of their own volition. You've made it clear that Bricklink (and Lego
by association) don't really care about us, our money isn't 'worth
the effort of supporting us'. The next time you try to tap into our 'untapped'
markets, many will have forgotten about how little you actually care, but I assure
you, many of us won't have forgotten.
I regret the amount of money and time I've spent sharing and growing the
Lego brand.
From the subtle mocking of your message, it's clear that your country isn't
affected by this announcement and that you share the same world view with Lego
and the Bricklink team.
I'm sorry, I'm not trying to be rude with you, but yes, it's possible
to register a new account as an existing (or even as an ex) customer.
It saddens me that the love of bricks that once brought us together now divides
us by creating a very clear them vs us world view. It's unavoidable when
you start making rules about who is welcome and who isn't welcome to play
with everyone else any more.
What the world really needs is less of this and more compassion.
I'm sorry, I'm not trying to be rude with you, but yes, it's possible
to register a new account as an existing (or even as an ex) customer.
No it's not allowed, read the TOS.
Why don't you post with your normal account?
It saddens me that the love of bricks that once brought us together now divides
us by creating a very clear them vs us world view. It's unavoidable when
you start making rules about who is welcome and who isn't welcome to play
with everyone else any more.
That's exactly what governments / laws / taxes do.
From the subtle mocking of your message, it's clear that your country isn't
affected by this announcement and that you share the same world view with Lego
and the Bricklink team.
I'm sorry, I'm not trying to be rude with you, but yes, it's possible
to register a new account as an existing (or even as an ex) customer.
It saddens me that the love of bricks that once brought us together now divides
us by creating a very clear them vs us world view. It's unavoidable when
you start making rules about who is welcome and who isn't welcome to play
with everyone else any more.
What the world really needs is less of this and more compassion.
Don't mind him. He trolls every comment with his hatred and dis. I guess
he feels his percieved privilage allows him to pass judgment on other people.
Although they claim it only affects a small proportion, they are setting a precedent
so that in the future, if a country or community does not meet their "parameters,"
they will simply brush it aside and move on—that's the sad part.
On the other hand, when they say: "so we’re here for another 25 years,"
they should understand that this time has been thanks to US, the very community
they are now marginalizing. I don’t understand how Lego, with the enormous profits
it made this year, can't dedicate itself to solving the problem that affects
us, the members and fans, preferring instead to exclude people in pursuit of
higher profits.
You yourselves are realizing that out of all possible solutions, you are choosing
the worst one.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
It takes years to build a dream,
and a few seconds to destroy it all
25 years ago, Dan had a dream, a website that would unite a global community
of Lego enthusiasts.
The website that was created 25 years ago has slowly grown and has become the
most reliable source for everything related to Lego, an international Lego marketplace.
And also a source of information about parts, colors and sets.
Lego enthusiasts from all over the world use this site every day.
Enthusiasts built parking lots on the site and made a living selling Lego through
the site.
Others purchased Lego from sellers around the world.
This was Dan's dream, this was his vision.
Even after his tragic death about ten years after the site was founded,
the site is active and is a source for all Lego enthusiasts in the world.
Six years ago, Lego purchased the site and became its owner
Even then, red lights went on for me,
And a few days ago, in a casual message on the admin forum, a message was posted
that in 15 days, enthusiasts from 35 countries will no longer be able to buy
or sell on the site.
Yes, I live in one of these neighborhoods, and we have no other alternative,
neither buying directly from the Lego site nor other sites.
An earthquake for enthusiasts and the community
Closing the possibility of continuing this hobby.
And economic harm to store owners without explaining and without giving them
the opportunity to organize accordingly.
Lego operates according to trade rules, and is harming the community.
Instead of looking for solutions and not harming the community
They chose the easy way out.
And we must remember that this is not what the site was built for, it is a violation
of a dream, a violation of the vision of Dan and his parents.
Their only claim is
that the site has been around for 25 years and only in this way will they be
able to exist for another 25 years.
Time will tell
But in my opinion, they will not survive at all.
It takes years to build a dream,
and a few seconds to destroy it all
25 years ago, Dan had a dream, a website that would unite a global community
of Lego enthusiasts.
You knew Dan?
I'm getting bored of Dan's ideal pictures when what he does was in 2000
and we're 25 years later. And I'm Dan's fan, have emails with him,
met his mother.
Things have changed since:
* Currencies
* VAT
* OSS
* Sales tax
* HST/GST
* DSA
* IOSS
* Tariffs
* hacks, ddos and spam
* COVID and geopolitical conflicts
* ...
If you think you're in the same world than in 2000, erm as much I'd like
to, but I don't think it's reasonable.
It is not just the numbers, but look closely and nearly every one of those new
accounts has a "me" page set up within minutes of the account being created.
Look at the same page for other countries and none of the new accounts will have
me pages. There is no way they are genuine accounts, but are there to promote
gambling websites and no doubt worse. They get their me page then have a bricklink
link to their advertising that they post elsewhere.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
It takes years to build a dream,
and a few seconds to destroy it all
25 years ago, Dan had a dream, a website that would unite a global community
of Lego enthusiasts.
The website that was created 25 years ago has slowly grown and has become the
most reliable source for everything related to Lego, an international Lego marketplace.
And also a source of information about parts, colors and sets.
Lego enthusiasts from all over the world use this site every day.
Enthusiasts built parking lots on the site and made a living selling Lego through
the site.
Others purchased Lego from sellers around the world.
This was Dan's dream, this was his vision.
Even after his tragic death about ten years after the site was founded,
the site is active and is a source for all Lego enthusiasts in the world.
Six years ago, Lego purchased the site and became its owner
Even then, red lights went on for me,
And a few days ago, in a casual message on the admin forum, a message was posted
that in 15 days, enthusiasts from 35 countries will no longer be able to buy
or sell on the site.
Yes, I live in one of these neighborhoods, and we have no other alternative,
neither buying directly from the Lego site nor other sites.
An earthquake for enthusiasts and the community
Closing the possibility of continuing this hobby.
And economic harm to store owners without explaining and without giving them
the opportunity to organize accordingly.
Lego operates according to trade rules, and is harming the community.
Instead of looking for solutions and not harming the community
They chose the easy way out.
And we must remember that this is not what the site was built for, it is a violation
of a dream, a violation of the vision of Dan and his parents.
Their only claim is
that the site has been around for 25 years and only in this way will they be
able to exist for another 25 years.
Time will tell
But in my opinion, they will not survive at all.
Don't mind the trolls. They are probably basement dwellers with to much time
on their hands.Lego's mission statement is to bring people together. This
is how they grew their brand and it was this that stopped them from going under.
They put so much time and money over the years to grow the AFOL community and
in the last few years they are abandoning this in favor of more and more profit.
I’m sorry, but you can’t honestly write that you went "about informing and
engaging our community and sellers the wrong way" and do the exact same thing
all over again. No banner on the bricklink website, no emails or messages
to those of us in the affected countries letting us know if the extension. No
real explanation is provided, either. It’s cold comfort to us locked out of bricklink
to be told that you,ll I est on the website so that it will still be here for
another 25 years, as we won’t get a chance to meaningfully engage with it. In
fact, it feels like you're trying to sweep the entire disaster under the
metaphorical carpet, hoping the community will move on and forget about those
of us blocked away from bricklink. Who cares about us, right? We're but a
small percentage of bricklink's global activity.
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
I’m sorry, but you can’t honestly write that you went "about informing and
engaging our community and sellers the wrong way" and do the exact same thing
all over again. No banner on the bricklink website, no emails or messages
to those of us in the affected countries letting us know if the extension.
Other people in affected countries have reported they have received an email.
I’m sorry, but you can’t honestly write that you went "about informing and
engaging our community and sellers the wrong way" and do the exact same thing
all over again. No banner on the bricklink website, no emails or messages
to those of us in the affected countries letting us know if the extension.
Other people in affected countries have reported they have received an email.
I’m sorry, but you can’t honestly write that you went "about informing and
engaging our community and sellers the wrong way" and do the exact same thing
all over again. No banner on the bricklink website, no emails or messages
to those of us in the affected countries letting us know if the extension.
Other people in affected countries have reported they have received an email.
Well there you have it, folks - those of us in these 35 countries just don't
matter.
For a company facing stronger competition than ever from competing brands, and
growing off the back of AFOL goodwill to the brand, this is a quick way to destroy
that goodwill in many of their most dedicated customers.
In Administrative, Admin writes:
these closures will affect a small percentage of BrickLink's global activity
First, I want to apologise. We went about informing and engaging our community
and sellers the wrong way. It wasn’t with the care and transparency we strive
for, and you’ve been right to point this out. While some of your feedback has
been tough to hear, we appreciate you sharing your honest thoughts and feelings
on this. It’s what this community is all about.
Deciding to close these markets wasn’t an easy decision for us to make. We know
how important the Marketplace is to sellers and builders all over the world and
understand the frustration and disappointment you feel.
Announcing plans to close the Marketplace just a few weeks ahead of time didn’t
give sellers in those countries nearly enough notice. So rather than close on
December 12 as stated in the forum post, the Marketplace will remain open in
impacted countries until January 31, 2026. We’ll also remove fees for affected
sellers for the months of November, December 2025 and January 2026 (in countries
where fees are currently applicable) to give them the best opportunity to transition
off BrickLink Marketplace.
Building lasting foundations for the next 25 years…
Every builder, buyer and seller matters to us, but we needed to make tough decisions
as operating in numerous regions presents greater complications as we plan significant
upgrades to BrickLink.com. While these closures will affect a small percentage
of BrickLink's global activity, we understand the impact that this will have
on the community in these countries.
During the coming year we’ll continue to make a substantial investment in our
IT infrastructure and make changes to strengthen the platform. Although some
of these backend changes might go unseen, they’re crucial to the future of BrickLink
– so we’re here for another 25 years.
I want to assure you that we’re committed to continuing to make BrickLink the
world’s best LEGO® fan community.
Thank you for your understanding and feedback.
Steven
Steven Lee
Head of BrickLink
Please give us detailed reasons for each country.
If it is legislation, taxes or some issue, then we can take that to our elected
officials and demand change. Otherwise nothing will change.
If you say nothing, we will assume it's corporate greed.
What a pointless post. You don't care. Honesty is completely optional to
you and you have chosen to ignore it here because you feel that it serves your
interests. I would ask what the real reason is but I don't feel like having
someone spew lies in the form of corporate BS at me.
It would have been better for you to post a single ASCII middle finger.
What a pointless post. You don't care. Honesty is completely optional to
you and you have chosen to ignore it here because you feel that it serves your
interests. I would ask what the real reason is but I don't feel like having
someone spew lies in the form of corporate BS at me.
It would have been better for you to post a single ASCII middle finger.
As a dedicated user for over 20 years, I understand that operating a global platform
involves difficult choices. However, I would like to offer a gentle suggestion
on behalf of the affected communities.
1.These 35 countries are essential pieces of the global puzzle. Please
do not view these 35 nations merely as "markets" on a spreadsheet, but
as integral parts of our global community. Take Taiwan as an example.
We possess arguably the most competitive and diverse online shopping environment
in the world.
Highly Advanced Regulations: Our digital commerce laws are ahead of the
curve.
Government Efficiency: Our civil servants and tax systems are incredibly
efficient—the tax bureau misses nothing.
Economic Health: In fact, our tax collection has been so effective (and
the economy so active) that the government had a massive tax surplus recently.
This year, this surplus was returned to the people: every single one of our 23
million citizens received a cash handout of NT$10,000 (approx. $310 USD).
This proves that we are ready and able to be part of a compliant system. Global
giants like Shopee and Apple operate here successfully because they adapted.
We are not "unviable"; we are just waiting for a system that includes
us.
2.Adaptation is better than Exclusion: The world is getting more complex.
Stricter regulations, digital taxes, and real-name verification are not just
happening in these 35 countries—they are an inevitable global trend. If
the current strategy is to simply exit any country that introduces complex regulations,
BrickLink's global footprint will shrink rapidly in the coming years. Today
it is Taiwan and Brazil; tomorrow it could be parts of the EU or Asia. Instead
of retreating, we hope LEGO chooses to build a flexible, modular infrastructure—much
like LEGO bricks themselves—that can adapt to different local laws rather than
breaking under them. Building this resilience now is an investment in the platform's
long-term survival.
3.We believe in LEGO's capability: Innovation shouldn't stop at the
brick. The LEGO Group is renowned not just for being the world's largest
toy company, but for its creativity and innovation. You have access to the brightest
minds, the best engineers, and the most robust resources in the industry. We
honestly believe that if any company can solve this complex cross-border compliance
puzzle, it is LEGO. Other platforms have found ways to automate tax collection
and integrate with local customs. It is not a question of ability, but of
will. We encourage you to view this not as a burden, but as an opportunity
to set a new standard for how a global fan community can operate legally and
sustainably.
We know the world is becoming more complicated, with more rules and barriers
popping up everywhere. But that is exactly why this community matters. For us,
LEGO has always been a universal language that bridges these gaps. It’s simple:
we just want to build and share our creations with friends around the globe.
Please don't let regulations break this bond. Let’s work together to keep
this simple joy alive, no matter where we live.
I saw this message from BL on my store settings page:
Complimentary use of BrickLink
LEGO BrickLink, Inc. is required to register with the tax authorities in the
countries in which BrickLink collects Seller Fees. Due to very low transaction
volumes, it’s been deemed not feasible for BrickLink to register for tax purposes
in your country. This measure will remain in effect until sales volumes reach
the threshold that would allow us to register for tax collection.
So maybe that's the reason why all of this is happening
I saw this message from BL on my store settings page:
Complimentary use of BrickLink
LEGO BrickLink, Inc. is required to register with the tax authorities in the
countries in which BrickLink collects Seller Fees. Due to very low transaction
volumes, it’s been deemed not feasible for BrickLink to register for tax purposes
in your country. This measure will remain in effect until sales volumes reach
the threshold that would allow us to register for tax collection.
So maybe that's the reason why all of this is happening
And how would the volumes reach the threshold if they block all sales there
I saw this message from BL on my store settings page:
Complimentary use of BrickLink
LEGO BrickLink, Inc. is required to register with the tax authorities in the
countries in which BrickLink collects Seller Fees. Due to very low transaction
volumes, it’s been deemed not feasible for BrickLink to register for tax purposes
in your country. This measure will remain in effect until sales volumes reach
the threshold that would allow us to register for tax collection.
So maybe that's the reason why all of this is happening
I saw this message from BL on my store settings page:
Complimentary use of BrickLink
LEGO BrickLink, Inc. is required to register with the tax authorities in the
countries in which BrickLink collects Seller Fees. Due to very low transaction
volumes, it’s been deemed not feasible for BrickLink to register for tax purposes
in your country. This measure will remain in effect until sales volumes reach
the threshold that would allow us to register for tax collection.
So maybe that's the reason why all of this is happening
Presumably they will never reach the threshold if they stop your stores selling.
USA, Tennessee
Brazil, Minas Gerais
France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Israel, Mehoz Tel Aviv
Canada, Ontario
United Kingdom, England
Australia, Victoria
Turkey
Argentina, Buenos Aires City
South Africa, North West
Taiwan Region, Taichung
Ukraine, Dnipro
Switzerland, Geneva
).
Peru, Lima
Spain, Comunidad Valenciana
Chile, Los Lagos
Belgium
Austria, Wien