What Exactly is a Group Buy?

Think of a Group Buy like a crowdfunding project similar to Kickstarter. You pay now for something that’s still in the planning stage. Here’s how it works:

• Pay Upfront: You pay for the item before it's even made.
• An idea–for now: You’re investing in designs, not finished products.
• Strength in Numbers: The product only gets made if enough people join in.

If not enough folks join, you get your money back, and we all go back to our lives, a bit sadder. 

Why Join a Group Buy?

Traditional manufacturing is risky. Companies make products hoping they’ll sell. If they don’t, it’s a big loss, or we end up with boring, safe products.

Group Buys flip the model on its head. You show interest and pay upfront, which lowers the risk for manufacturers. This allows for more unique and creative products. It's a win-win.

Benefits of Group Buys

• Cost-Effective: Get cool items at a lower price. Apos doesn't charge heavy margins on Group Buy items--just a platform fee. 
• Less Risk: Reduces financial risk for creators.
• Unique Products: Access to exclusive, niche designs.
• Creative Freedom: Designers can create bold, innovative products.

The Group Buy Process

1. Interest Check: We share ideas on our blog, head-fi, reddit, etc. If enough people are interested, we move forward.
2. Group Buy Launch: We list the project on our website and promote it on social media.
3. Production Phase: Samples are made, quality is checked, and colors are matched to the designs. Once everything is approved, the big order is placed with the manufacturer.
4. Pre-orders: Missed the Group Buy? You can still pre-order before the final shipment.
5. Fulfillment: About six months later, the products are shipped, and the community shares unboxing posts and bragging rights.
6. Reruns: If there’s high demand after the initial launch, we might run the Group Buy again.

FAQs

How long do I have to join a Group Buy?

You typically have around 30 days to join. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, or Discord for updates.

What if a Group Buy fails?

We’ve all heard the horror stories—organizers disappearing with funds, manufacturers going bust, lost orders. With us, you’re safe. If a Group Buy fails, we refund your money. No drama, just your money back.

Can I cancel or change my order?

Once you snag the product, it's yours—no take-backsies unless there's a manufacturing defect. Group Buys rely on collective purchasing to reduce costs, so returns would throw off the balance and derail the whole project. However, you can cancel your order before we place it with the factory—no harm, no foul. For shipping times longer than six months, cancel within three months after the Group Buy ends; for shorter times, cancel until we place the order, which could be as soon as the week after the Group Buy closes. Remember, a Group Buy is a commitment—make sure you're in it for the long haul.