🔗 Share this article

As a notable development, Walmart has started enforcing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during a single visit. This policy was activated as of early November, according to an internal announcement distributed to employees.

Addressing Scalper Activity

While not officially confirmed by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer purchasing a massive amount of Pokémon card products 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 updated guideline specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes each time they enter. However, the language has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. What exactly counts as a "box" is not defined, and whether someone could buy five premium Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.

Additionally, because the restriction is tied to individual trips, in theory a determined scalper could make multiple trips—buying five items each time—to gather significant stocks throughout the day.

The Reseller Crisis

For the average collector, this approach might seem over the top, yet for resellers, it's standard practice. In recent years, scalpers have greatly contributed to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the game's rising popularity.

Some resellers seek to sell unopened products for a profit, whereas some search for valuable pulls that can command extraordinary prices. As an example, a specific Mega Evolution card in recent releases is currently selling for over $800 on various platforms.

Looking Ahead

This policy change coincides with the imminent release of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Early listings already show chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution listed for nearly $1,500, highlighting the persistent interest and potential scalper target.

With any luck, the retail limits will curb bulk purchases and improve availability for true fans and everyday enthusiasts as well.