One of the most popular questions we get asked here at Belle-Ve Bricks is “Why does LEGO retire sets?” It’s a good question and one that doesn’t have a straightforward answer. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various reasons why LEGO might choose to retire a set, as well as the implications for LEGO fans and collectors.
Reasons LEGO Retires LEGO Sets
There are a number of reasons why LEGO might choose to retire a set. The most common reason is that the set is no longer selling well. This might be because it’s no longer popular with kids, or because it’s too expensive for the average consumer. Sometimes, LEGO will also retire a set because it’s no longer cost-effective to produce. For example, if a set contains a lot of small pieces that are expensive to manufacture, LEGO might decide to discontinue the set in order to save money.
Another reason why LEGO might retire a set is that it’s simply too old. Over time, sets can become dated and no longer appeal to modern consumers. This is especially true for licensed sets, which often tie in with movies, TV shows, or video games that are no longer popular. For example, when the Harry Potter franchise ended in 2011, LEGO retired many of its Harry Potter-themed sets.
So what does this mean for you? If you’re a fan of LEGO, it’s important to be aware that sets can and do get retired on a regular basis. This means that if there’s a particular set that you’re hoping to buy, you should do so sooner rather than later. Once a set is retired by LEGO, it will likely become much more expensive on the secondary market (i.e. eBay, BrickLink). So if you’re looking to add a particular set to your collection, it’s best to buy it before it gets retired!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many reasons why LEGO might choose to retire a set. The most common reason is poor sales, but other factors can include the age of the set or high production costs. If you’re hoping to add a particular set to your collection, it’s best to buy it before it gets retired!
