Walmart Introduces Purchase Limits on Pokémon Trading Cards
In a significant move, Walmart has started enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during one shopping trip. This policy was activated starting November 5th, according to an internal announcement distributed to employees.
Tackling Reseller Problems
While not officially confirmed by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The store manager seen in the video faced significant criticism for permitting the bulk transaction to proceed.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The new restriction states that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes per store visit. Yet, the language has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and if someone could buy five premium Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.
Additionally, since the limit is tied to each visit, in theory an eager reseller could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to accumulate significant stocks throughout the day.
The Reseller Crisis
To most players, such efforts might seem over the top, but for scalpers, it's standard practice. In recent years, scalpers have significantly added to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, driven by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers aim to sell unopened products for a profit, whereas some hunt for rare cards that can fetch sky-high values. For instance, the Mega Lucario ex card in recent releases has been listed for over $800 on various platforms.
Looking Ahead
The new rule coincides with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Early listings already show premium cards like the Charizard mega evolution listed for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the persistent interest and likely reseller attention.
With any luck, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and increase access for true fans and casual players alike.
