The retail giant Introduces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products
As a notable development, Walmart has begun enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can buy during a single visit. This policy officially takes effect as of early November, based on an internal announcement shared with employees.
Addressing Scalper Activity
Although not formally announced by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer purchasing an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The employee seen in the video faced significant criticism for permitting the bulk transaction to proceed.
Policy Details and Potential Loopholes
The updated guideline states that shoppers may only buy up to five trading card boxes or packs each time they enter. However, the wording has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. What exactly counts as a "box" remains unclear, and whether someone could still purchase five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.
Additionally, because the restriction is based on individual trips, in theory an eager reseller could return repeatedly—buying five items each time—to gather large quantities over several hours.
The Reseller Crisis
To most players, such efforts might seem over the top, but for scalpers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, speculators have significantly added to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, spurred by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers aim to resell sealed items at a markup, whereas some search 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, coming on November 14th. Early listings already show premium cards like the Charizard mega evolution listed for nearly $1,500, emphasizing the persistent interest and likely scalper target.
With any luck, Walmart's restrictions will curb bulk purchases and improve availability for genuine collectors and everyday enthusiasts as well.
