Opening a Bricks & Minifigs location puts you at the center of one of the most passionate consumer communities in retail today. The used LEGO specialty market has exploded in recent years, driven by collectors, parents, and hobbyists who want access to sets, minifigures, and bulk bricks at a fraction of the secondary market price. But translating that enthusiasm into a profitable franchise requires real capital - and knowing where to find it makes all the difference between getting your doors open quickly and spending months chasing dead ends.
This guide breaks down exactly what it costs to open a Bricks & Minifigs franchise, which financing options fit the business model best, what lenders look for, and how Crestmont Capital helps specialty retail franchise owners like you get funded.
In This Article
Bricks & Minifigs is the largest used and collectible LEGO specialty retail franchise in the United States. Founded in 2010 and franchised beginning in 2014, the company operates stores where customers can buy, sell, and trade used LEGO sets, individual minifigures, and bulk bricks. The brand has grown steadily as demand for pre-owned LEGO products has outpaced traditional retail channels.
Unlike a standard toy store, Bricks & Minifigs targets a specific and loyal customer base that includes adult LEGO fans (AFOLs), children with birthday budgets, collectors hunting for retired sets, and parents looking for affordable creative play options. That built-in demand means franchisees enter a market with proven consumer interest rather than trying to create it from scratch.
The franchise model provides territorial exclusivity, a recognized brand name, training support, and a tested purchasing and valuation system for used product intake. According to Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 list, the brand has ranked consistently in recent years, reflecting system-wide growth and franchisee satisfaction metrics that attract new investors.
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Apply Now - No Cost to ApplyUnderstanding the full cost picture before you apply for financing is critical. Lenders want to see that you have a precise grasp of startup expenses - not ballpark guesses. Here is what prospective Bricks & Minifigs franchisees should anticipate based on the most recently published Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) data.
The initial franchise fee for a standard Bricks & Minifigs location is $40,000. This fee grants territorial rights, initial training access, and the right to operate under the Bricks & Minifigs brand. For additional locations opened by existing franchisees, a reduced fee of approximately $15,000 may apply.
The total estimated initial investment for a new Bricks & Minifigs location ranges from approximately $241,000 to $570,000. That wide range reflects differences in market size, lease rates, real estate improvements, and the scale of the initial inventory purchase. Most franchisees land somewhere in the $280,000 to $400,000 range for a mid-size market location.
Bricks & Minifigs Franchise Investment Breakdown
| Cost Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 | $40,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 | $120,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $40,000 | $100,000 |
| Furniture & Fixtures | $15,000 | $35,000 |
| Signage | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| POS System & Technology | $4,000 | $12,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Staffing (First 3 Months) | $20,000 | $40,000 |
| Insurance (12 Months) | $2,500 | $8,000 |
| Security Deposit & Other Costs | $5,000 | $18,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $241,000 | $570,000 |
Source: Bricks & Minifigs 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Figures are estimates; actual costs vary by location, market size, and landlord terms.
In addition to startup costs, franchisees pay ongoing fees that affect cash flow projections. The royalty fee is 6% of gross sales, and the brand advertising fee adds approximately 1% to 4% of gross sales depending on the agreement version. Factor these into your financial model when applying for financing - lenders will ask to see realistic operating projections that account for these obligations.
Beyond the hard startup costs listed above, lenders and franchise consultants typically advise holding three to six months of operating expenses in reserve. For a Bricks & Minifigs location, that translates to an additional $25,000 to $60,000 in liquid reserves that should not be pledged as collateral. This buffer protects against slower-than-expected ramp-up periods, which are common in the first year of any retail franchise.
The good news for Bricks & Minifigs franchise investors is that multiple financing paths are available, and the right combination depends on your credit profile, available collateral, and how quickly you need capital. Most franchisees use a blended approach rather than relying on a single funding source.
The SBA 7(a) loan program is the most popular route for financing a franchise in the $150,000 to $5 million range. Because Bricks & Minifigs is listed in the SBA Franchise Directory (which means the franchise agreement has been pre-reviewed for SBA eligibility), the underwriting process is significantly faster than it is for unlisted brands. SBA 7(a) loans offer long repayment terms - typically 10 years for working capital and up to 25 years for real estate - and require a down payment of approximately 10% to 20% of the project cost.
If you plan to purchase the building for your Bricks & Minifigs store rather than lease, the SBA 504 loan program may be a better fit. This two-part structure pairs a bank loan with a certified development company (CDC) loan guaranteed by the SBA, with the borrower contributing 10% to 15% as a down payment. The 504 is designed for fixed assets like commercial real estate and major equipment purchases, not working capital or inventory.
Conventional term loans from banks, credit unions, and non-bank lenders can fund franchise startups when borrowers have strong credit, meaningful collateral, and prior business ownership experience. Rates are typically higher than SBA-backed options, but conventional loans often close faster and carry fewer documentation requirements. For established business owners opening a second or third location, conventional term loans may provide the most straightforward path.
Some lenders have developed dedicated franchise financing programs that streamline underwriting for brands with FDD-documented performance metrics. These programs often require less documentation than traditional business loans because the lender already has historical data on the franchise system's unit economics. Ask your lender whether they participate in any franchise-specific programs before applying through the standard channel.
Key Insight: Inventory Financing for Used LEGO Retail
One underappreciated financing option for Bricks & Minifigs owners is a revolving line of credit specifically for inventory purchases. Because the business model depends on buying used LEGO product from walk-in sellers, your ability to buy quickly and consistently drives revenue. An inventory financing line lets you purchase product on demand without depleting operating cash.
Certain startup costs - including your POS system, display shelving units, security systems, and sorting equipment - can be financed separately through equipment financing. This approach allows you to preserve SBA loan proceeds for higher-priority uses like inventory and leasehold improvements, while spreading equipment costs over a separate 24 to 72-month term.
Some franchise investors use a ROBS strategy to fund startup costs with existing retirement account funds (401k or IRA) without incurring early withdrawal penalties. ROBS is not a loan - it is a legal structure that allows you to invest retirement funds into a C-corporation that then purchases the franchise. ROBS structures require careful legal and accounting oversight and are not appropriate for every investor. If you are considering this path, work only with a firm that specializes specifically in ROBS transactions.
The Small Business Administration does not lend money directly to franchise owners. Instead, the SBA guarantees a portion of loans made by participating banks and non-bank lenders, which reduces the risk to lenders and allows them to extend credit to businesses they might not otherwise fund. Understanding this structure helps you navigate the SBA application process more effectively.
According to data from the SBA's 7(a) and 504 loan program reports, retail franchise businesses consistently represent a significant percentage of annual SBA loan volume. The U.S. Small Business Administration publishes annual program performance data that shows franchise concepts have strong loan performance records relative to non-franchise small businesses.
To qualify for an SBA-backed franchise loan, you will typically need to meet these baseline criteria:
SBA lenders will review the Bricks & Minifigs FDD as part of their underwriting process. Franchisors are required to provide this document at least 14 calendar days before you sign any agreement or pay any fee, so you should already have it in hand before approaching lenders.
SBA 7(a) loan processing time typically runs four to eight weeks from completed application to funding, though expedited SBA Express loans (capped at $500,000) can close in as little as two to three weeks. Working with an experienced SBA lender who specializes in franchise transactions significantly shortens the timeline. Lenders unfamiliar with franchise lending often ask for unnecessary documentation, which delays closing.
Did You Know?
The secondary market for collectible LEGO products has grown significantly in recent years. Research published by Forbes and other financial media outlets has highlighted LEGO sets as one of the strongest-performing alternative investments over the past decade, driven by limited production runs and a global collector community. This cultural momentum directly supports foot traffic and buy-sell transaction volume at Bricks & Minifigs stores.
Whether you apply through the SBA channel or pursue a conventional business loan, lenders evaluate franchise loan applications using a consistent set of criteria. Knowing what they look for - and preparing accordingly - dramatically improves your approval odds and the terms you receive.
For a startup franchise with no operating history, your personal credit is the primary indicator lenders use to assess risk. A score of 680 or higher puts you in the range where most SBA lenders will engage seriously. Scores between 650 and 680 may still qualify, but expect higher interest rates or stricter collateral requirements. Scores below 650 typically require alternative lenders with non-SBA products.
Review your personal credit report from all three major bureaus before applying. Dispute any inaccuracies that are dragging your score down. Pay down revolving credit balances to below 30% utilization if possible. Small improvements in your score can translate to meaningfully better loan terms.
Lenders want to see that you have real skin in the game. The standard SBA equity injection requirement is 10% to 20% of the total project cost. On a $350,000 franchise investment, that means contributing $35,000 to $70,000 of your own capital. This can come from personal savings, a home equity line of credit, gifts from family members, or the proceeds from selling other assets.
Collateral for franchise loans often includes the business assets themselves (equipment, fixtures, inventory), a personal guarantee, and sometimes a lien on personal real estate. SBA loans require borrowers to pledge all available collateral up to the loan amount, but SBA lenders cannot decline a loan solely because collateral is insufficient - they must also consider the overall creditworthiness of the borrower.
A professionally prepared business plan matters. It demonstrates that you have analyzed your local market, understand the unit economics of the franchise, and have a realistic path to profitability. Most SBA lenders require three-year financial projections including a pro forma income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. Some also require a break-even analysis.
Your projections should align with Item 19 of the Bricks & Minifigs FDD, which contains financial performance representations. Lenders will cross-reference your projections against the disclosed system-wide averages. If your projections assume revenue significantly above the FDD averages without a compelling market-specific rationale, expect pushback from underwriters.
Retail and specialty commerce experience is a meaningful advantage when applying for a franchise loan. Lenders are more comfortable funding investors who have managed employees, handled inventory, and operated within a retail environment. If you have prior experience in the toy, collectibles, or resale industries, highlight it prominently in your loan application.
If you lack direct industry experience, the strength of the franchise training program and support structure can partially compensate. Emphasize your business ownership background, financial management skills, or other transferable experience in your application narrative.
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Start Your ApplicationCrestmont Capital is a nationwide small business lender rated among the top business lenders in the country. We specialize in franchise financing and work with investors across retail, food service, health and wellness, and specialty commerce - including the growing collectibles and resale segment where Bricks & Minifigs operates.
Our lending team connects Bricks & Minifigs franchise investors with the right product for their financial profile. We offer access to SBA 7(a) loans, conventional term loans, business lines of credit, equipment financing, and inventory financing. Most borrowers benefit from a blended approach - for example, using an SBA 7(a) loan to cover the franchise fee, leasehold improvements, and opening inventory, while layering in a separate equipment financing line for POS systems and fixtures.
Getting started with Crestmont is straightforward. Submit a short application online and our team reviews your profile within one business day. We will identify which products you qualify for, explain your options clearly, and help you build a funding structure that matches your investment timeline. We do not charge application fees, and pre-qualification does not affect your credit score.
Once you proceed, our team prepares your loan package - including the business plan review, financial projection formatting, and SBA application documentation - to present your file to lenders in the strongest possible position. We manage lender communication and keep you updated throughout the process so you are never left wondering where your application stands.
Many franchise buyers apply directly to their bank and get declined - not because they are not qualified, but because their bank does not specialize in franchise transactions. Crestmont works with a network of SBA-preferred lenders and specialty franchise lenders who understand the Bricks & Minifigs business model and have funded similar transactions. That network advantage translates into faster approvals and more competitive terms than most investors can access on their own.
Franchise investors who have worked with Crestmont for specialty retail store financing note that our team's familiarity with FDD documentation and franchisor requirements significantly reduces the back-and-forth that typically delays retail franchise loans. Our team also has extensive experience with franchise loans for specialty and experiential retail concepts similar to Bricks & Minifigs, including Play It Again Sports franchise financing and Once Upon a Child franchise loans.
Abstract financing concepts become clearer when you see how they apply to specific investor situations. Here are several realistic scenarios that illustrate how Bricks & Minifigs franchise buyers approach funding their investments.
A former retail store manager with 12 years of experience in consumer electronics decides to open a Bricks & Minifigs location in a suburban strip mall. Her estimated project cost is $310,000. She has $65,000 in savings and a personal credit score of 710. She applies for an SBA 7(a) loan for $250,000, contributing her $65,000 as the equity injection. The lender approves the loan with a 10-year term and a market-based interest rate. She opens on time and uses the remaining working capital reserve to fund her first 90 days of operations while she builds steady buy-sell transaction volume.
An existing Bricks & Minifigs owner with a profitable first store wants to open a second location in a neighboring market. His first store has 18 months of operating history and consistent monthly revenue. He applies for a conventional term loan using his first store's cash flow to demonstrate debt service capacity. The lender approves $200,000 at a competitive rate with a five-year term, using the existing business assets as collateral. Because his first store is performing well, underwriting is straightforward and he closes in less than three weeks.
A retired executive with excellent credit (740+) wants to open a Bricks & Minifigs franchise but has most of her net worth tied up in real estate rather than liquid savings. Her lender structures an SBA 7(a) loan using her residential real estate as collateral for the equity injection requirement, allowing her to contribute less cash upfront while still meeting the SBA's collateral standards. The loan closes with a 10-year term and she retains enough working capital to manage the store through its initial ramp-up period.
A Bricks & Minifigs owner who opened 18 months ago has a consistently profitable store but finds that cash flow limitations occasionally prevent him from buying desirable bulk LEGO lots that walk through the door. He applies for a working capital loan of $40,000 to maintain a dedicated inventory purchasing reserve. The revolving line allows him to move quickly when high-value collections become available, increasing his average margin on resold product. His revenue grows 22% in the following quarter.
A new franchisee receives SBA 7(a) approval for $275,000 but realizes mid-build-out that her POS system, custom shelving units, and security camera installation will cost $28,000 more than projected. Rather than requesting an SBA loan modification, she uses a separate equipment financing line to cover the overage with a 36-month repayment term. This approach keeps her SBA proceeds earmarked for inventory and operating reserves while efficiently financing the fixed assets on a separate schedule.
Your Franchise Financing Roadmap
Pro Tip: Time Your Financing Application Correctly
Apply for franchise financing as early in the process as possible - ideally as soon as you receive the FDD. Most SBA loans take four to eight weeks from application to funding. If you wait until after you have signed a lease or committed to a build-out timeline, you may find yourself in a race against the clock. Starting early gives you negotiating room with both the franchisor and your lender.
The total estimated initial investment for a Bricks & Minifigs franchise ranges from approximately $241,000 to $570,000 according to the most recent FDD. This range includes the $40,000 franchise fee, leasehold improvements, initial inventory, fixtures, signage, technology, marketing, and staffing for the first three months. Most franchisees in mid-size markets land between $280,000 and $400,000 in total startup costs.
Can I use an SBA loan to finance a Bricks & Minifigs franchise?Yes. Bricks & Minifigs is eligible for SBA financing. The SBA 7(a) loan program is the most commonly used path for franchise buyers in this investment range. To qualify, you will typically need a personal credit score of 650 or higher, an equity injection of 10% to 20% of the project cost, and a signed or pending franchise agreement. Working with an experienced SBA lender who specializes in franchise transactions is strongly recommended.
What credit score do I need to get a franchise loan?Most SBA lenders require a minimum personal credit score of 650, though 680 or higher gives you access to the most competitive terms and lenders. Scores below 650 may require alternative non-SBA financing products with higher rates. Your credit score is particularly important for startup franchises because there is no business operating history for lenders to evaluate. Improving your score before applying can meaningfully reduce your interest rate and long-term borrowing costs.
What is the Bricks & Minifigs franchise fee?The initial franchise fee for a Bricks & Minifigs location is $40,000 for a standard new location. Existing franchisees opening additional locations may qualify for a reduced fee of approximately $15,000. The franchise fee is typically financed as part of an SBA 7(a) loan rather than paid out of pocket, though some investors use ROBS retirement fund structures to cover it without taking on debt.
How long does it take to get a franchise loan approved?SBA 7(a) loan approval and funding typically takes four to eight weeks from a complete application submission. SBA Express loans (capped at $500,000) can close in two to three weeks. Conventional business loans often close faster, sometimes in two to four weeks, depending on the lender and how quickly you can provide required documentation. Working with a lender who specializes in franchise financing shortens the timeline significantly.
Do I need prior retail experience to qualify for a Bricks & Minifigs franchise loan?Prior retail experience is helpful but not strictly required. Lenders evaluate the full picture of your professional background. Relevant experience includes business ownership, retail or consumer goods management, inventory management, and customer-facing service roles. If you lack direct industry experience, the strength of your credit profile, equity contribution, and business plan can compensate. The Bricks & Minifigs training program is also a factor - lenders view proven franchisor training systems positively.
Can I finance the inventory separately from the rest of the startup costs?Yes. Inventory can be financed through several channels, including as part of your SBA 7(a) loan, through a dedicated inventory line of credit, or through a separate working capital loan. Many Bricks & Minifigs franchisees find value in maintaining a revolving inventory credit line even after opening, since the buy-sell model requires ongoing capital availability to purchase walk-in collections quickly and profitably.
What ongoing fees does a Bricks & Minifigs franchisee pay?Ongoing fees include a royalty of 6% of gross sales and a brand advertising fee of approximately 1% to 4% of gross sales, depending on the specific franchise agreement. These fees must be factored into your cash flow projections when building your financial model for loan approval. Lenders will evaluate whether your projected revenue is sufficient to cover loan payments, operating expenses, and ongoing franchise obligations simultaneously.
What collateral is required for a franchise loan?Collateral requirements vary by loan type. SBA 7(a) loans require borrowers to pledge all available business and personal assets up to the loan amount. Business assets (fixtures, inventory, equipment) are pledged first, followed by personal assets including real estate if available. SBA policy prohibits lenders from declining a qualified loan application solely because collateral is insufficient, but having pledgeable collateral strengthens your application and may reduce your interest rate.
Is Bricks & Minifigs a good franchise investment?Franchise investment performance depends on location, management, market size, and execution quality. Bricks & Minifigs operates in a growing niche with passionate consumer demand and limited national competition. The used LEGO market has demonstrated resilience across economic cycles, as consumers seek affordable alternatives to full-price retail. As with any franchise, prospective investors should review the FDD thoroughly, speak with existing franchisees, and consult with an independent franchise attorney before committing capital.
Can I open multiple Bricks & Minifigs locations?Yes. Multi-unit development agreements are available for investors who want to open more than one location. Reduced franchise fees typically apply for second and subsequent locations. From a financing perspective, opening a second location is often easier than the first, since lenders can evaluate actual operating history from your existing store when underwriting the expansion loan.
What is the SBA Franchise Directory and does Bricks & Minifigs appear on it?The SBA Franchise Directory is a list of franchise brands whose franchise agreements have been pre-reviewed for SBA eligibility. When a brand is listed, SBA lenders can skip the franchisor review step and move directly to underwriting the borrower's individual file. This accelerates the approval timeline for franchise buyers. Prospective borrowers should confirm with their lender whether Bricks & Minifigs is currently listed, as SBA directory status can change.
How much working capital reserve should I plan for?Financial advisors and experienced franchise lenders typically recommend holding three to six months of operating expenses in reserve above and beyond your startup capital. For a Bricks & Minifigs location, that translates to approximately $25,000 to $60,000 in liquid reserves not pledged as collateral. This buffer protects against slower-than-projected ramp-up periods, unexpected lease costs, or market development expenses beyond the initial grand opening budget.
What documents do I need to apply for a franchise loan?Standard franchise loan documentation requirements include: personal and business tax returns (two to three years if applicable), personal financial statement, bank and investment account statements (three months minimum), signed or pending franchise agreement, FDD (latest version), business plan with three-year financial projections, resume/biography, and government-issued ID. Your lender may request additional documents based on your specific financial situation. Having these items organized before you apply significantly speeds up the process.
Does Crestmont Capital work with first-time franchise buyers?Yes. Crestmont Capital works with first-time franchise investors as well as experienced multi-unit operators. First-time buyers benefit from our team's guidance on structuring their loan application, preparing financial projections, and understanding what lenders need to see. Our lending network includes SBA-preferred lenders with experience funding specialty retail franchise startups, and we help first-time applicants present their files in the most competitive possible way.
The Bricks & Minifigs franchise offers a compelling entry point into a specialty retail segment with passionate consumer demand and a proven buy-sell business model. The total investment range of $241,000 to $570,000 is well within the parameters of SBA 7(a) financing, and the franchise's established system makes it attractive to lenders who have experience with specialty retail concepts.
Success in financing your Bricks & Minifigs franchise cost depends on preparation: knowing your numbers, understanding the FDD, building realistic financial projections, and working with lenders who specialize in franchise transactions. Whether you are funding your first location or expanding to a second, Crestmont Capital has the products, expertise, and lender relationships to get your deal done efficiently and on terms that work for your business.
The small business financing landscape offers real opportunities for franchise investors who approach the process with the right preparation and the right lending partner. Start your application with Crestmont today and take the first step toward opening your Bricks & Minifigs location.
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Apply NowDisclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.