A leaked internal email outlines how Bricks and Minifigs handled criticism over a $200K Star Wars Lego consignment dispute, highlighting legal actions taken and communication strategies employed.
A controversial internal email has been leaked, revealing the strategic response of Bricks and Minifigs to ongoing criticism surrounding a significant dispute involving a consignment of Lego sets. The document was shared by YouTuber Reckless Ben, who reacted to it in real-time during his video commentary. According to the leaked email, Bricks and Minifigs faced what they termed a "coordinated negative PR attack" linked to a former franchise consignment dispute in Salem, Oregon. The company claimed that online attention driven by videos published by Reckless Ben had led to harassment calls, review bombing, and store disruptions across their network.
The email details the company's active efforts to address these issues, stating they were "actively working and sharing records with local police, Oregon State Police, the FBI and USPIS." Additionally, it mentions that legal teams were preparing claims including a temporary restraining order to manage ongoing disputes and online activity. The leaked guidance also includes suggested communication approaches for franchise staff when responding to customer queries, emphasizing pre-written messaging intended to maintain consistency across locations during public scrutiny.
The dispute centers on allegations involving a Star Wars Lego consignment reportedly worth around $200,000 placed at a Bricks and Minifigs franchise location in Keizer, Oregon. Ownership disagreements emerged after a change in franchise management, with former franchise owner Chrystal Gorman publicly claiming she was removed from the premises "under threat of police action" and without compensation. These allegations have been raised in social media posts and legal filings.
Ammon McNeff, CEO of Bricks and Minifigs North America, has also faced increasing criticism online as attention around the case has grown. In a statement, Bricks and Minifigs denied wrongdoing, asserting that they "do not participate in the exploitation of anyone, especially older adults." However, the Lego collection at the center of the dispute remains unreturned, according to reports.
This leak provides insight into how major franchise operations handle public scrutiny and legal disputes, highlighting the complex strategies employed by companies to manage negative PR.
