Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon Trading Cards
As a notable development, Walmart has started implementing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card products customers can acquire during one shopping trip. This policy was activated as of early November, based on a company memo shared with 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 buying a massive amount of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The store manager seen in the video received significant criticism for permitting the bulk transaction to go through.
Rule Specifics and Possible Weaknesses
The new restriction specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes per store visit. Yet, the wording has raised questions due to its lack of clarity. What exactly qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and if someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.
Moreover, 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
For the average collector, this approach might seem excessive, but for scalpers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, speculators have greatly contributed to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers aim to resell sealed items at a markup, while others search for rare cards that can command sky-high values. For instance, a specific Mega Evolution card in recent releases is currently selling at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars in online marketplaces.
Upcoming Releases
The new rule aligns with the imminent release of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Early listings already show chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution listed for nearly $1,500, emphasizing the persistent interest and potential reseller attention.
Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce mass buying and improve availability for genuine collectors and casual players alike.
