The retail giant Introduces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products
As a notable development, Walmart has started enforcing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during a single visit. This policy officially takes effect starting November 5th, according to an internal announcement shared with employees.
Tackling Reseller Problems
Although not formally announced by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was influenced by a widely shared social media clip that showed a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The employee seen in the video faced widespread backlash for allowing the large-scale transaction to proceed.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The new restriction states that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes each time they enter. However, the wording has sparked debate due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what counts as a "box" remains unclear, and if someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Additionally, because the restriction is based on individual trips, theoretically a determined scalper could make multiple trips—buying five items each time—to accumulate large quantities throughout the day.
The Reseller Crisis
For the average collector, such efforts might seem over the top, but for scalpers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, scalpers have greatly contributed to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, driven by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers seek to resell sealed items for a profit, while others search for valuable pulls that can command sky-high values. For instance, the Mega Lucario ex card in recent releases is currently selling for over $800 on various platforms.
Upcoming Releases
The new rule coincides with the imminent release of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Pre-release sales already show chase cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex being offered for nearly $1,500, emphasizing the ongoing demand and potential scalper target.
Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and increase access for true fans and casual players as well.
