The retail giant Implements Purchase Limits on Pokémon Trading Cards
In a significant move, Walmart has begun enforcing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card products customers can buy during one shopping trip. This new rule officially takes effect as of early November, according to an internal announcement shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
While not officially confirmed by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that depicted a customer purchasing an enormous quantity of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The employee seen in the video faced significant criticism for allowing the large-scale transaction to go through.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The new restriction specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card boxes or packs per store visit. However, the language has raised questions due to its vagueness. What exactly qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and whether someone could still purchase five premium Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Additionally, because the restriction is based on each visit, in theory an eager reseller could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to accumulate large quantities over several hours.
The Scalping Phenomenon
To most players, this approach 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 at a markup, whereas some hunt for rare cards that can fetch extraordinary prices. For instance, a specific Mega Evolution card from the latest set is currently selling at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars on various platforms.
Upcoming Releases
The new rule coincides with the imminent release of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Early listings already show chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the ongoing demand and potential scalper target.
Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce mass buying and increase access for true fans and everyday enthusiasts as well.
