Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon Trading Cards
In a significant move, Walmart has started enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card products customers can acquire during one shopping trip. This policy officially takes effect starting November 5th, according to a company memo shared with employees.
Tackling Reseller Problems
Although not formally announced by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that depicted a customer purchasing an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The employee featured in the video received significant criticism for permitting the large-scale transaction to proceed.
Rule Specifics and Possible Weaknesses
The updated guideline specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes each time they enter. However, the wording has raised questions due to its vagueness. What exactly qualifies as a "box" is not defined, and if someone could still purchase five premium Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.
Additionally, since the limit is based on individual trips, in theory an eager reseller could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to gather large quantities throughout the day.
The Scalping Phenomenon
For the average collector, such efforts might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's common behavior. In recent years, scalpers have greatly contributed to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers seek to sell unopened products at a markup, whereas some search for valuable pulls that can command extraordinary prices. As an example, a specific Mega Evolution card from the latest set has been listed at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars in online marketplaces.
Looking Ahead
The new rule coincides with the imminent release of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Pre-release sales already show premium cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex listed for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the persistent interest and likely reseller attention.
Hopefully, Walmart's restrictions will help reduce mass buying and increase access for genuine collectors and casual players alike.
