| John2290 said: Just realizing this now? Personally don't buy anything for frugal reasons but even branded clothes is just advertising for more branded clothes but with a higher price the more advertising that brand gets. *shrugs* it is what it is. |
This was my thought.
I buy merchandise because I like what the object is. Or I support the cause of the idea. I don't buy a lot of merch, but I've definitely bought a few Amiibo from games I like including Zelda, Metroid, Chibi Robo, and Yoshi. I buy shirts for bands I like, and I don't mind if I'm advertising for them. That was half the point. Just consume wisely and realize this truth you've discovered. But don't be resentful of the company for charging you for your "service." That shirt, cup, pair of socks, whatever, cost money to produce and ship and it does contain an IP, which by itself worth a few bucks. And if you really don't like this brand relationship you have, then ditch it and spend your money on things you find more equitable.
