The retail giant Enforces Purchase Limits on Pokémon Trading Cards
As a notable development, Walmart has begun implementing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can buy during one shopping trip. This new rule officially takes effect starting November 5th, based on a company memo shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
Although not formally announced by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer buying a massive amount of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The store manager featured in the video received significant criticism for allowing the bulk transaction to proceed.
Rule Specifics and Possible Weaknesses
The new restriction 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 counts as a "box" remains unclear, 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 make multiple trips—purchasing the maximum each time—to gather significant stocks over several hours.
The Scalping Phenomenon
For the average collector, this approach might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's common behavior. Over the past few seasons, speculators have significantly added to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, driven 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 extraordinary prices. As an example, the Mega Lucario ex card from the latest set is currently selling at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars on various platforms.
Upcoming Releases
This policy change coincides with the approaching launch of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Pre-release sales indicate premium 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, Walmart's restrictions will help reduce mass buying and increase access for true fans and casual players as well.
