Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products
In a significant move, Walmart has started implementing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during a single visit. This new rule officially takes effect starting November 5th, based on a company memo shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
While not officially confirmed by Walmart, many believe this decision was influenced by a widely shared social media clip that depicted a customer buying a massive amount of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The store manager seen in the video faced widespread backlash for permitting the large-scale transaction to go through.
Rule Specifics and Possible Weaknesses
The updated guideline states that shoppers may only buy up to five trading card packs or boxes per store visit. However, the wording has sparked debate due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what counts as a "box" is not defined, and whether someone could still purchase five premium Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Moreover, because the restriction is based on each visit, theoretically a determined scalper could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to gather large quantities over several hours.
The Scalping Phenomenon
For the average collector, such efforts might seem excessive, but for scalpers, it's common behavior. In recent years, scalpers have significantly added to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the game's rising popularity.
Certain buyers seek to sell unopened products for a profit, whereas some hunt for rare cards that can fetch sky-high values. For instance, a specific Mega Evolution card in recent releases is currently selling for over $800 in online marketplaces.
Upcoming Releases
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 being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the persistent interest and potential scalper target.
With any luck, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and increase access for true fans and casual players as well.
