Latest news with #LEGOIdeas
North Wales Live
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- North Wales Live
LEGO fans can build a vending machine that dispenses Minifigures
The LEGO Group has announced the launch of the LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set; a retro-inspired building set designed for adults - with 1,343 pieces. I insert the included LEGO coin, turn the handle, and release one of 16 capsules, each containing bricks to build a minifigure. Each figure is a surprise, featuring nostalgic themes like Castle, Paradisa, and Fabuland, as well as Classic Space explorers and even the LEGO Ideas Fan Designer who uploaded the product idea to The functional brick-built vending machine offers collectors exclusive, nostalgic minifigures. The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set was submitted by Belgium-based Fan Designer, Rob Vangansewinkel, as part of the LEGO Ideas programme. LEGO Ideas allows fans to submit product ideas, which are then voted for by the community before being considered to be made into a real LEGO set. Rob said: 'As a kid, I had a real vending machine at home and loved it - so the idea of creating a working LEGO brick version that dispenses minifigures just clicked. I started with a digital version of the model and posted it on LEGO Ideas. But I wasn't sure if the dispensing mechanism would really work, so I spent about two months testing and refining the design with actual LEGO bricks. I even took apart my old vending machine to understand the mechanics and make it work, and I'm so proud of the final product." The set blends LEGO building techniques with a true-to-life vending mechanism, complete with a click as you turn the knob. The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set is available for LEGO Insiders early access from June 1, 2025, and for all from June 6, via and LEGO Stores, priced at € 169.99 / £ 149.99 / $ 179.99.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
LEGO fans can build a vending machine that dispenses Minifigures
The LEGO Group has announced the launch of the LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set; a retro-inspired building set designed for adults - with 1,343 pieces. I insert the included LEGO coin, turn the handle, and release one of 16 capsules, each containing bricks to build a minifigure. Each figure is a surprise, featuring nostalgic themes like Castle, Paradisa, and Fabuland, as well as Classic Space explorers and even the LEGO Ideas Fan Designer who uploaded the product idea to The functional brick-built vending machine offers collectors exclusive, nostalgic minifigures. READ MORE: 'Flattering around the tummy' dress from Next is just £24 and shoppers love its versatility READ MORE: 'These Dr Martens sandals are my top summer purchase and they've got £42 off' The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set was submitted by Belgium-based Fan Designer, Rob Vangansewinkel, as part of the LEGO Ideas programme. LEGO Ideas allows fans to submit product ideas, which are then voted for by the community before being considered to be made into a real LEGO set. Rob said: 'As a kid, I had a real vending machine at home and loved it - so the idea of creating a working LEGO brick version that dispenses minifigures just clicked. I started with a digital version of the model and posted it on LEGO Ideas. But I wasn't sure if the dispensing mechanism would really work, so I spent about two months testing and refining the design with actual LEGO bricks. I even took apart my old vending machine to understand the mechanics and make it work, and I'm so proud of the final product." The set blends LEGO building techniques with a true-to-life vending mechanism, complete with a click as you turn the knob. The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set is available for LEGO Insiders early access from June 1, 2025, and for all from June 6, via and LEGO Stores, priced at € 169.99 / £ 149.99 / $ 179.99.
Wales Online
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
LEGO fans can build a vending machine that dispenses Minifigures
LEGO fans can build a vending machine that dispenses Minifigures The machine vends mystery sets for you to build The LEGO Group has announced the launch of the LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set; a retro-inspired building set designed for adults - with 1,343 pieces. I insert the included LEGO coin, turn the handle, and release one of 16 capsules, each containing bricks to build a minifigure. Each figure is a surprise, featuring nostalgic themes like Castle, Paradisa, and Fabuland, as well as Classic Space explorers and even the LEGO Ideas Fan Designer who uploaded the product idea to The functional brick-built vending machine offers collectors exclusive, nostalgic minifigures. The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set was submitted by Belgium-based Fan Designer, Rob Vangansewinkel, as part of the LEGO Ideas programme. LEGO Ideas allows fans to submit product ideas, which are then voted for by the community before being considered to be made into a real LEGO set. Rob said: 'As a kid, I had a real vending machine at home and loved it - so the idea of creating a working LEGO brick version that dispenses minifigures just clicked. I started with a digital version of the model and posted it on LEGO Ideas. But I wasn't sure if the dispensing mechanism would really work, so I spent about two months testing and refining the design with actual LEGO bricks. I even took apart my old vending machine to understand the mechanics and make it work, and I'm so proud of the final product." Article continues below The set blends LEGO building techniques with a true-to-life vending mechanism, complete with a click as you turn the knob. The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set is available for LEGO Insiders early access from June 1, 2025, and for all from June 6, via and LEGO Stores, priced at € 169.99 / £ 149.99 / $ 179.99.
Campaign ME
21-05-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
What MENA marketers can learn from fandom strategy
With the Middle East becoming a global hub for entertainment and tourism, regional marketers have a unique opportunity to employ the power of fandom to build enduring brand loyalty. LEGO's innovative fan engagement strategies, coupled with the recent announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi offer valuable lessons for brands in the region. Get your tickets to the Campaign Breakfast Briefing: Marketing Strategies 2025 on May 29, where top industry leaders will gather to unpack game-changing practices within the world of marketing. Marketers must build communities, not just customers LEGO's transformation from a company on the brink of bankruptcy in the early 2000s to a global powerhouse is a testament to the power of community. Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, who recently stepped down from his board position leaving behind a legacy of visionary leadership, is widely credited for one of the most remarkable corporate turnarounds. When he assumed the role in 2004 as the first person outside the founding Kristiansen family to manage the company, LEGO was facing a severe financial crisis, with significant losses and declining sales. Under his leadership, the company not only returned to profitability but also became a global leader in the toy industry. This approach was far from conventional. In a bold move, the company embraced community-driven innovation. LEGO acknowledged its adult fan base, known as AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO), by creating platforms for them to contribute directly to the brand's evolution. Recognising the untapped potential of adult fans, Knudstorp actively engaged the AFOL community, leveraging their passion and creativity through initiatives such as LEGO Ideas, which transformed fan designs into best-selling sets. The LEGO House in Billund, Denmark, further showcases the brand's commitment to its fans. This 'Home of the Brick' features massive displays of fan-made creations, interactive exhibits, and workshops that celebrate creativity and community. This physical space serves as a pilgrimage site for fans, cementing LEGO's legacy as a brand. More recently, the BrickLink Designer Program has taken fan involvement to the next level. Acquired by LEGO, BrickLink is a marketplace for custom LEGO designs. Through the Designer Program, fans can submit designs for crowdfunding. Once fully funded, these designs are manufactured and distributed by LEGO, with fan designers earning both recognition and financial reward. This initiative highlights a crucial shift in the industry: fans are no longer just passive consumers but active co-creators in brand storytelling in revitalising classic themes, blending nostalgia with contemporary creativity. This level of engagement goes beyond marketing; it positions fans as stakeholders in the brand's success. This participatory culture has not only kept LEGO relevant but has also allowed it to thrive in an increasingly competitive market, offering MENA brands and marketers a blueprint for sustainable growth through community engagement. Disneyland Abu Dhabi: A cultural fusion Disney's announcement of its first Middle Eastern theme park in Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in the region's entertainment landscape. Set to be located on Yas Island, the park aims to blend Disney's iconic storytelling with Emirati culture and architecture. Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, emphasised that the park will be 'authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,' highlighting a commitment to cultural integration. This strategic move aligns with the UAE's broader vision to diversify its economy through tourism and entertainment. By creating a space that resonates with local culture while offering globally recognised experiences, Disney is setting a precedent for how international brands can successfully enter and thrive in the MENA market. The announcement of Disney's upcoming theme park in Abu Dhabi has ignited a wave of speculation and excitement across social media platforms. Fans worldwide are actively discussing how this new park might differ due to its unique location. For example; on TikTok and Reddit, fans are sharing ideas about potential attractions that blend Disney's iconic storytelling with Emirati culture, such as incorporating attractions inspired by regional folklore – enthusiasts have floated ideas such as rides based on the legend of Umm Al Duwais or storytelling zones inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, reimagined with a modern Disney twist. Facebook groups dedicated to Disney enthusiasts are buzzing with discussions about how the park's design might adapt to Abu Dhabi's climate. This community-driven dialogue reflects a participatory culture where fans feel invested in the development process, offering suggestions and expressing hopes for culturally resonant experiences. What is particularly noticeable is Disney's willingness to lean into these conversations with fans. The company has embraced engagement by hosting forums and Q&A sessions, encouraging fans to share their ideas, as well as spotlighting regional influencers in Abu Dhabi. This approach not only promotes a sense of belonging among Disney's global audience, but also demonstrates the company's commitment to integrating community feedback into its projects. By valuing and incorporating fan contributions, Disney reinforces a shared purpose and connection with its audience, ensuring that the new park resonates with both new, local visitors and long-time international fans. The road ahead for marketers The MENA region stands at the cusp of a new era in brand engagement, where storytelling and community are paramount. By learning from global examples such as LEGO and Disney, regional marketers can craft strategies to captivate audiences and empower them to become co-creators. In doing so, brands can build lasting relationships that transcend traditional consumer dynamics, fostering vibrant communities that drive sustained success. In a landscape increasingly defined by experience and participation, the brands that will thrive are those that invite their audiences to be part of the story. Dr Vlada Botoric, PhD, Assistant Professor, Zayed University
North Wales Live
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- North Wales Live
New LEGO set lets you build famous Pixar character for first time
The LEGO Group and Pixar have collaborated to unveil the first-ever brick built LEGO Ideas Luxo Jr Collectible Display model which will be available from the June 1, 2025. Synonymous with classic Pixar movies and heralding from 1986 when Luxo Jr first appeared in a short Pixar film, fans will be able to recreate Luxo Jr's signature bouncing, hopping and rotating movements in bricks, for the first time. The buildable display model is fully articulated and includes a buildable Pixar ball, which nostalgic fans can display with Luxo Jr standing on it as if squashing it, inspired by the 1986 short Pixar film, Luxo Jr. The Pixar ball opens up to reveal hidden easter eggs inspired by popular Disney and Pixar movies including Up, The Incredibles, Ratatouille, Monsters, Inc. Toy Story and Finding Nemo. The 613-piece posable set offers fans a new way to show their love for the iconic lamp that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years. The new LEGO set was designed by London-based LEGO fan Toby Brett, as part of the LEGO Ideas programme. Once designed, 10,000 people voted for it to be made into a real set. The design was a crowd favourite among the LEGO Ideas community. Toby said 'I'm a huge fan of all the Pixar films, which were a big part of my childhood and Luxo Jr. is the mascot that perfectly sums up my love for these movies. I spent a lot of time looking at photos of Luxo Jr. to make my model as screen-accurate and recognisable as possible.' The is available for pre order from the May 8 and to purchase from June 1 2025 from LEGO stores and from select retailers.
