Walmart Implements Purchase Limits on Pokémon Trading Cards
In a significant move, Walmart has started enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card products customers can buy during a single visit. This new rule was activated as of early November, according to a company memo shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
Although not formally announced by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a widely shared social media clip that depicted a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The store manager seen in the video received widespread backlash for permitting the bulk transaction to go through.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The updated guideline specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card boxes or packs per store visit. However, the language has sparked debate due to its lack of clarity. What exactly qualifies as a "box" is not defined, and whether someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Additionally, because the restriction is tied to each visit, theoretically an eager reseller could return repeatedly—buying five items each time—to accumulate significant stocks throughout the day.
The Reseller Crisis
For the average collector, this approach might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, speculators have greatly contributed to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, spurred by the game's rising popularity.
Certain buyers aim to sell unopened products at a markup, while others hunt for valuable pulls that can fetch 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
This policy change aligns with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Early listings indicate chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the ongoing demand and likely reseller attention.
Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and improve availability for true fans and everyday enthusiasts as well.