Le-Glue, a water-soluble adhesive designed for building blocks like Lego® and Mega Bloks®, is a product born out of necessity and creativity. Tripp Phillips, the young entrepreneur behind the invention, teamed up with his father to create a solution for keeping Lego creations intact without permanently bonding the pieces. Since its launch in 2015, Le-Glue has grown into a thriving business, generating millions in revenue and leaving a mark on the world of innovative products.
How the Idea for Le-Glue Was Born
Tripp Phillips, who was just 9 years old at the time, came up with the idea for Le-Glue while playing with his beloved Lego blocks. Like many kids, he experienced frustration when his creations fell apart. Tripp wished for a temporary glue to keep his structures together without damaging the bricks.
Fortunately, innovation runs in the family. Tripp’s father, a lab scientist, encouraged his son to turn this idea into reality. Together, they developed a non-toxic, water-soluble adhesive that would hold Lego structures together without corroding the plastic. With support from his teacher and a Kickstarter campaign that raised $4,000 in late 2015, Tripp launched Le-Glue LLC.
Le-Glue’s Appearance on Shark Tank
In 2018, Tripp and his father appeared on the first episode of Shark Tank Season 10. They sought $80,000 for 15% equity in the company, hoping to secure a deal with one of the sharks to take their business to the next level.
Their pitch impressed the sharks, and both Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John made offers. Kevin proposed $80,000 for 25% equity, along with a 50% royalty on licensing deals until his investment was recouped, after which his equity would drop to 20%. Daymond, on the other hand, offered the same $80,000 for 25% equity but with no contingencies. Ultimately, Tripp and his father accepted Kevin’s deal.
Growth and Success After Shark Tank
Following their Shark Tank appearance, Le-Glue saw a significant boost in visibility and sales. The product quickly gained popularity among parents, kids, and hobbyists who wanted a temporary adhesive for their building block creations. By November 2021, Le-Glue had generated over $1 million in revenue and was averaging between $17,000 and $20,000 in monthly sales.
The company’s success continued to grow as it expanded its distribution channels. Le-Glue products are now available in major retail stores and online platforms, including Amazon and Walmart. Customers can also purchase directly from the company’s website. In February 2020, Le-Glue was featured on the Shark Tank “Greatest of All Time” special in the Baby Sharks category, further cementing its reputation as an innovative and successful product.
What Makes Le-Glue Unique?
Le-Glue’s appeal lies in its unique formulation. Unlike traditional glues, Le-Glue is non-toxic, water-soluble, and specifically designed for temporary use. This means that builders can secure their creations without fear of permanent damage to their Lego or Mega Bloks. When the adhesive is no longer needed, it can be washed off easily with water, restoring the blocks to their original condition.
The product’s versatility and safety have made it a favorite among parents and educators. It allows children to experiment with building designs without the frustration of their creations falling apart, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
Tripp Phillips: The Young Entrepreneur
Tripp Phillips, now in his teens, continues to be the face of Le-Glue. His entrepreneurial journey began at an incredibly young age, and his success has made him a role model for aspiring inventors and young businesspeople. With the support of his father and the guidance of Kevin O’Leary, Tripp has shown that age is no barrier to achieving great things in the business world.
Family and Foundations
The Phillips family’s collaborative spirit has been instrumental in Le-Glue’s success. Tripp’s father not only contributed his scientific expertise but also invested $1,000 in the early stages of the company to create initial units of the product. This family effort underscores the importance of teamwork and support in achieving entrepreneurial goals.
As of 2025, Tripp’s net worth is estimated to be over $1 million, a remarkable achievement for someone so young. The success of Le-Glue has provided the Phillips family with financial stability and opportunities to expand their vision.
The Future of Le-Glue
Le-Glue’s journey is far from over. With its established presence in global markets and a strong reputation for quality and innovation, the company continues to explore new opportunities for growth. Tripp and his father remain committed to expanding their product line and reaching even more customers worldwide.
Their story is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and family support. Le-Glue’s success demonstrates that even the simplest ideas, when executed well, can have a significant impact.
Le-Glue has transformed from a child’s imaginative idea into a thriving business that serves customers around the globe. Tripp Phillips’s entrepreneurial journey, supported by his family and Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary, is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with determination and innovation. As the company continues to grow, it remains a shining example of how creativity and problem-solving can lead to extraordinary success.