The relationship between idols and their supporters is often cemented through fan merchandise. Like in K-pop culture, lightsticks hold a special place as they are not just a symbol of fandom but also a beacon of support during concerts and events. Yet, what will happen if the merch you purchased does not meet your expectations?
For Blooms (fans of P-pop girl group BINI), the recent release of lightstick merch and freebies, like photocards, was highly anticipated. However, upon receiving the products they saved up for and purchased, many fans expressed dissatisfaction with the product’s quality, noting that it was not worth their money.
Some mentioned that the lightsticks felt flimsy and cheaply made, saying that the design lacked the creativity and uniqueness that could set it apart from other fandoms, which contradicts the robust and premium feel as advertised.
Others also commented on the photocards’ thinness and uneven cutting, saying that it’s a shame to include them in their photocard album collection, with some even comparing it to other P-pop group’s merch.
@binistylefinds limited edition bini merch ba talaga to ? #BINI #BiniWand #Photocard #Sheena #Stacey #Colet #Jhoanna #Maloi #Mikha #Aiah #Gwen ♬ Oh no Oh no no No – JISSO
@binistylefinds ‼️ #BloomsDeserveBetter #BINI #Merch #Sheena #Stacey #Jhoanna #Colet #Gwen #Mikha #Aiah #Maloi ♬ som original – Ringtones by old Phones
@brynbsysy BAGONG LARUAN NG BLOOMS HAHAHAHAHA 😭 #bini #biniph #tiktokph #ppop #bloom #fyp #biniwand #biniverse #binimerch #binisheena #binigwen #binijhoanna #binistacey #binicolet #binimaloi #binimikha #biniaiah ♬ original sound – BRYAN ౨ৎ
The disappointment surrounding the girl group’s merch has had a noticeable impact on the fandom. Social media platforms were flooded with posts from Blooms sharing their grievances and comparing their experiences. Hashtags like #BloomsDeserveBetter trended, highlighting the widespread nature of the dissatisfaction.
While the disappointment was noticeable, many fans took a constructive approach, offering suggestions for improvement and expressing hope that future merchandise releases would be better handled.
Meanwhile, there were also calls for accountability from the management company, with fans urging them to address the quality issues and ensure that future products meet the expectations of the loyal fanbase.
Addressing these issues head-on and ensuring that future merch releases are of high quality will be crucial in maintaining the trust and support of their fans, and while the recent merch release has been a source of disappointment for many Blooms, it also highlights the passion and high standards that fans hold for BINI.
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