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In a significant move, Walmart has started enforcing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during a single visit. This policy was activated starting November 5th, based on a company memo distributed to employees.

Tackling Reseller Problems

While not officially confirmed by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was prompted by a widely shared social media clip that depicted a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The employee featured in the video faced widespread backlash for allowing 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 each time they enter. Yet, the wording has sparked debate due to its vagueness. What exactly qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and if someone could still purchase five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous.

Moreover, because the restriction is tied to individual trips, theoretically a determined scalper could return repeatedly—purchasing the maximum each time—to accumulate significant stocks over several hours.

The Reseller Crisis

For the average collector, such efforts might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's standard practice. Over the past few seasons, scalpers have greatly contributed to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, spurred by the game's rising popularity.

Certain buyers seek to resell sealed items for a profit, whereas some hunt for valuable pulls that can fetch sky-high values. As an example, a specific Mega Evolution card from the latest set has been listed at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars in online marketplaces.

Looking Ahead

This policy change aligns with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Early listings indicate chase cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex listed for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the persistent interest and likely scalper target.

Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce mass buying and increase access for genuine collectors and everyday enthusiasts as well.