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The PokémonCompany has declared its intention to roll out a series of permanent Pokémon stores outside of Japan. The first store is scheduled to open in London, UK, in 2029.
A statement written by Gaku Susai, CPEO at The Pokémon Company International, reads:
“We are always exploring new opportunities that help us create unique and memorable experiences for our fans. This new London store will give visitors the chance to step into the world of Pokémon, whether they’re discovering the brand for the first time or have been Trainers for years."
"We hope it becomes a place where everyone can come together, feel like part of a community and enjoy the magic of Pokémon in a whole new way.”
This won't be the first time The Pokémon Company has plied its trade on London's high streets. As many will remember (especially those who visited at the time), pop-up Pokémon stores made sporadic appearances on these shores, first in 2019, and then later in 2022, alongside that year's Pokémon World Championships.
Equally as memorable were the chaotic queues (lasting up to five hours daily) and frenetic spending by resellers, which led the stores to close their doors early, bring in more security, place limitations on item sales, and introduce a pre-booking system; such was the fervour of the stores' arrival.
Of course, a permanent retail store would be frequented more occasionally, and would not have quite the same "Mad Rush" mentality of the pop-ups. At least in the long term, the opening weeks and months will no doubt be similarly packed - especially if we get a restock of Pikachu dressed up as A Little City Gent.
The PokémonCompany only specified London as one of the new chain's locations, with further locations to be announced in due time. Time to start saving, fans; these stores ain't known for their bargain products.