Index
1. Expanding Opportunities to Encounter Pokémon Merchandise
Pokémon fans looking for plushies, stationery, and other themed goods frequently visit Pokémon Center official shops. We currently operate 22 locations across Japan, stretching from Hokkaido to Okinawa, as well as branches in Taipei and Singapore.
However, we recognize that many people who enjoy Pokémon rarely have the chance to visit a physical shop. But now, to make Pokémon merch easier to obtain in more and more situations, we also offer buyers, from die-hard fans to casual shoppers, convenient opportunities to make purchases through official Pokémon vending machines.
We currently offer two types of machines: the “Pokémon Stands,” offer a selection of official Pokémon merchandise, and the “Pokémon Card Stands,” which specializes in the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG).*
2. Pokémon Memories Through Automated Retail
The team first focused on developing the Pokémon Stands. We wanted these vending machines to provide easy access to a selection of popular merchandise sold at Pokémon Centers.
A foundational principle of the Pokémon Center is to offer more than just products; we want fans to experience the Pokémon world and take lasting memories home. To reflect this philosophy in an automated experience, the team explored several possibilities.
One answer the development team arrived at was to have Pikachu greet people as they pass by a Pokémon Stands. This piques curiosity and encourages passersby to stop and see what is inside.
Once a customer makes a purchase, the machine dispenses the item in a paper bag specifically designed for these stands. We intend these unique bags to be durable enough to be repurposed for everyday use.
We also identified the best locations for the machines through rigorous testing. As a result, we now place these machines in high-visibility areas such as airports, expressway rest areas, and major train terminals.
The response at airports has been particularly enthusiastic. We often see international travelers delighted by an unexpected Pokémon encounter.
3. Brightening the Day with Pokémon Cards
Following the Pokémon Stands, the development team next focused on creating “Pokémon Card Stands.” These are vending machines that mainly sell booster packs, which contain a random selection of five cards.
The team chose train stations as the primary locations for these machines. One staff member explained the reasoning behind this choice:
“Stations are hubs where all kinds of people pass through on their way to work or school. If someone is having a hard day, finding a card they want at the station might give them a little boost. We want Pokémon to be a supportive presence that is nearby people’s daily routines.”
A set of two booster packs at a Pokémon Card Stands costs 330 yen (as of December 2024). This affordable price point makes it easy for business professionals and students to buy them as a small self-reward or a souvenir.
We also see instances of elementary school students spotting a new product on their way to school and returning after school with a parent or guardian to buy it. These stands are becoming more and more familiar in local communities.
4. Valuing Spontaneous Encounters in the Real World
We are currently scouting new locations for both Pokémon Stands and Pokémon Card Stands to create even more points of interaction with fans. A staff member shared a positive vision for this continued expansion:
“While people today have almost unlimited access to product information on merchandise through their smartphones and computers, we want to raise the chances for them to stumble upon Pokémon merchandise in person. We’d really love it if these accidental encounters lead to new interest in Pokémon or if a purchase brings a little joy to someone’s day.”
Vending machines offer a unique way to facilitate these chance encounters with Pokémon. We will continue expanding Pokémon Stands and Pokémon Card Stands, hoping these small encounters add a splash of color to people’s lives.