5 minute read
DUB DUB TOYS
Dub Dub Toys is a relative newcomer to Steveston Village; storeowner Willam Wong opened his Chatham Street shop in November 2023. This specialty shop has attracted a following for its LEGO® sets, individual minifigures and licensed LEGO® products.
William’s interest in LEGO® dates back to his youth. He recalls having a small tub of LEGO® pieces and with those limited resources, he could build almost anything he imagined. As he grew older, William’s attention shifted to video games; however, in 2014, his passion reignited when he watched The LEGO® Movie.
William says, “Since then, I’ve been collecting LEGO® rather than building it. Then life’s priorities took over, like getting married and having kids, but I continued buying LEGO® with the dream of one day having a dedicated LEGO® room to share with my children.”
Eventually, William’s collection grew so large that he needed a website to track it. His garage was stuffed, and this is when he decided he needed a storefront.
William had always dreamed of owning a business. He says, “I grew up in a family where my father was a businessman in Hong Kong. I also worked as a student accountant, where I gained valuable insights into business finances. Before considering opening Dub Dub Toys, I thought about starting a tutoring school since I had been a tutor for many years. However, with my growing collection, pursuing something I was passionate about that could also benefit others felt right.”
“I’ve shifted from wanting to build LEGO® sets to enjoying the process of collecting and imagining how the sets would look once built.”
The Richmond Chamber of Commerce awarded Dub Dub Toys New Business of the Year.
What is the story behind the business’s name? William explains, “My initials are WW, and when you say them quickly, it sounds like dub dub. I wanted the business name to feel young and exciting.”
Dub Dub Toys specializes in acquiring discontinued LEGO® sets, making it the only store in Vancouver focused on this niche. The store’s inventory features a wide range of retired sets, including limited-edition promotional items unavailable for public purchase.
I want Dub Dub Toys to be a place that brings joy to every visitor.
Customers range from children to seniors. Many live in Steveston, while others travel from across the Lower Mainland, including the islands and further north, to visit this unique store.
William finds it gratifying to connect with his customers and hear how much they enjoy their sets.
“I love seeing photos of their creations and engaging in conversations. Over time many customers have revealed how building with LEGO® has played a vital role in their lives, whether as a source of joy, creativity or even therapy.”
“Each customer has a story. One memorable customer purchased two Indiana Jones sets for $1,000 because his mother had thrown away his sets during his childhood. He shared that playing with LEGO® inspired his creativity and led him to become a short film producer.”
Another customer uses LEGO® to fuel their imagination through stop-motion animation using minifigures.
More than half of Dub Dub Toys’ inventory consists of discontinued sets.
“I prioritize acquiring retired sets over current ones, as these items hold special appeal for LEGO® enthusiasts and collectors. By focusing on discontinued and rare sets, Dub Dub Toys has become a must-visit destination for fans and collectors looking for something truly special.”
Due to space limitations, approximately ninety percent of Dub Dub’s inventory consists of sealed sets. Sets are displayed sideways on shelves, like books in a library. William plans to add a larger display shelf for preowned LEGO®
Dub Dub Toys carries vintage sets from as far back as the 1970s, including the first LEGO® Castle (1978), the first Spiderman set (2003) and the first wave of Harry Potter sets (2001).
“Sets released in the 1990s to 2010s are the most sought-after. Those were the times before LEGO® became very popular, and many people missed the opportunity to buy them at retail prices when they were still available.”
Sellers usually contact William after they visit the store. Others discover his business through Facebook Marketplace and online listings. People will often stroll in seeking something specific. On the day I visited, someone was in search of The Office TV sitcom LEGO® set.
“One significant advantage Dub Dub Toys offers is our trade-in program. Customers can bring in old sets and exchange them for store credit, which they can use toward purchasing something new without paying extra. This program provides added value for my customers and allows me to acquire retired sets at a healthy profit margin.”
“LEGO®’s popularity lies in its timeless designs and unmatched quality. Every brick, from the very first piece to the most recent one, is compatible, ensuring that the sets you buy today will fit seamlessly with future sets. This is something few toy companies can guarantee. The bricks are durable and are designed to last. They provide endless creative possibilities. Whether you follow instructions or build freely, there’s no wrong way to play with LEGO®. LEGO® is a toy that transcends time; it sparks imaginations and brings joy to people of all ages.”
Dub Dub Toys
4–3740 Chatham Street Richmond, BC V7E 2Z3
Phone 778-954-6657
Story by Sarah Gordon (Feb 2025) @PALLAMEDIA
