Discover Pokemon Treasures: Unveiling Vending Machine Secrets

Discover the World of Pokémon Vending Machines: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokémon fans using social media have likely encountered discussions about Pokémon vending machines. As The Pokémon Company expands their presence in the US, many questions arise – and we have the answers.

What are Pokémon Vending Machines?

Pokémon vending machines are automated kiosks dispensing various Pokémon merchandise, offering a convenient (though not necessarily budget-friendly) shopping experience similar to purchasing a soda.

While various vending machine types have existed, the current US focus is on TCG-centric models initially piloted in Washington in 2017. This trial's success led to wider deployment across US grocery stores in recent years.

These machines are visually striking, featuring vibrant colors and clear Pokémon branding. Their easily noticeable placement, often near store entrances (as observed in a Kroger store), enhances visibility.

Unlike older button-operated machines, these use touchscreens. Customers browse available TCG items, select their choices, and pay via credit card. Charming Pokémon animations add to the overall buying experience. A digital receipt is emailed to the customer upon purchase. It's important to note that The Pokémon Company does not accept returns on TCG merchandise purchased from these machines.

What Merchandise Do They Sell?

These machines generally do not sell plushies, apparel, video games, or other Pokémon merchandise. A limited number of Pokémon Center vending machines in Washington State offered a wider variety, but these seem to be decreasing in favor of the more focused TCG models.

Locating a Pokémon Vending Machine

The official Pokémon Center website provides a comprehensive list of currently operational Pokémon TCG vending machines in the US. Currently, these machines are present in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. The website allows users to select their state to view nearby participating stores.

Distribution is currently concentrated in major cities within each state, primarily within partner grocery stores such as Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Frys, Kroger, Pick ‘n Save, Safeway, Smith’s, and Tom Thumb.

For those without local machines, the Pokémon Center website allows users to "Follow" the locations list for notifications regarding new machine additions.