Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products
As a notable development, Walmart has begun implementing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can buy during a single visit. This new rule officially takes effect as of early November, based on an internal announcement shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
While not officially confirmed by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a widely shared social media clip that depicted a customer purchasing a massive amount of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The store manager featured in the video received widespread backlash for allowing the large-scale transaction to proceed.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The new restriction states that shoppers may only buy up to five trading card boxes or packs per store visit. Yet, the language has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what counts as a "box" is not defined, and if someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.
Additionally, since the limit is based on individual trips, theoretically an eager reseller could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to accumulate significant stocks throughout the day.
The Scalping Phenomenon
For the average collector, such efforts might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, scalpers have greatly contributed to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, driven by the game's rising popularity.
Certain buyers aim to resell sealed items for a profit, whereas some search for valuable pulls that can command extraordinary prices. As an example, the Mega Lucario ex card in recent releases is currently selling for over $800 in online marketplaces.
Looking Ahead
The new rule aligns with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Pre-release sales indicate chase cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex listed for nearly $1,500, emphasizing the ongoing demand and potential reseller attention.
With any luck, Walmart's restrictions will help reduce mass buying and improve availability for genuine collectors and casual players as well.
