Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products
As a notable development, Walmart has begun enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can buy during one shopping trip. This new rule was activated as of early November, according to an internal announcement distributed to employees.
Tackling Reseller Problems
Although not formally announced by Walmart, many believe this decision was influenced by a widely shared social media clip that showed a customer purchasing an enormous quantity of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The employee seen in the video received significant criticism for permitting the large-scale transaction to proceed.
Rule Specifics and Possible Weaknesses
The new restriction specifies that shoppers may only buy up to five trading card boxes or packs each time they enter. However, the language has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. What exactly qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and whether someone could still purchase five premium Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Moreover, because the restriction is tied to individual trips, theoretically a determined scalper could make multiple trips—buying five items each time—to gather large quantities over several hours.
The Scalping Phenomenon
For the average collector, this approach might seem excessive, but for scalpers, it's common behavior. Over the past few seasons, speculators have significantly added to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the game's rising popularity.
Certain buyers aim to resell sealed items at a markup, whereas some hunt for valuable pulls that can command sky-high values. For instance, the Mega Lucario ex card from the latest set is currently selling for over $800 on various platforms.
Looking Ahead
The new rule coincides with the approaching launch of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Early listings already show premium cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, emphasizing the ongoing demand and likely reseller attention.
Hopefully, the retail limits will curb bulk purchases and improve availability for genuine collectors and everyday enthusiasts as well.
