I would like to start a filament buying club in the UK for people like me who buy a fair bit of plastic. I already am in discussions with suppliers trying to figure out a sweetspot, but the general idea is that club members would sign up for monthly buys of several rolls (or whatever frequency we agree on) which would allow for a serious bulk-buy discount.
There are always some bulk bargains to be had of really good quality filament, but its only worthwhile if enough people pitch in to get a great price. So this might be another feature, where club members would be offered to buy a “special”, a bit like woot.
It would also give members access to pre-market products, and steep discounts on more specialist filaments like TPU, Carbon Fibre etc.
I’m located in Manchester, but this can cover almost the entire UK and still remain workable.
Contact sales@metacad.co.uk we can get you a great deal on good Form futura stuff with bulk discounts. use our site for 1 offs and ring Linda up on UK line 01942525976 for bulk orders.
This might be an issue initially, i.e. for people who want only one particular brand ever, if I have understood you correctly. On the other hand, I suppose the club could make samples available of whatever filaments will be on offer which would allow you to have a go with a different brand you might not have considered before.
I really only want to start with filament initially, but at some point I suppose anything 3D printing related would also be offered to club members.
Sounds like an interesting idea. I am based in Horwich, Bolton and work South Manchester. I think I need my orders up to have a regular supply though… d’oh!!
That equates to roughly three rolls a month I would imagine. Is the current price you are paying holding you back from buying more, or do you simply buy what you need, price would not affect that?
Faberdashery sell in 100 metre coils so 400 metres is 4 rolls, which is 3.36 Kg at 2.85 mm diameter. Yes I just buy what I need, however if the plastic was cheaper I might sell more!
