The retail giant Implements Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products

In a significant move, Walmart has begun implementing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card products customers can acquire during a single visit. This new rule officially takes effect as of early November, based on an internal announcement distributed to employees.

Tackling Reseller Problems

While not officially confirmed by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that depicted a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The employee featured in the video faced widespread backlash 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 packs or boxes per store visit. However, the language has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what qualifies as a "box" is not defined, and if someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.

Moreover, since the limit is based on individual trips, in theory an eager reseller could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to accumulate significant stocks 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, spurred by the game's rising popularity.

Some resellers aim to sell unopened products at a markup, while others hunt for rare cards 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.

Upcoming Releases

This policy change coincides with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Pre-release sales indicate premium cards like the Charizard mega evolution being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, emphasizing the ongoing demand and likely reseller attention.

With any luck, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and increase access for genuine collectors and casual players alike.