If you're a Pokemon enthusiast with any social media presence, you've likely noticed the buzz around Pokemon vending machines. As The Pokemon Company expands these machines across the US, fans are curious—and we're here to provide the answers.
What Are Pokemon Vending Machines?
Pokemon vending machines are automated units that dispense a range of Pokemon merchandise, making it as convenient as purchasing a soda—although perhaps not as budget-friendly.
Over the years, various types of vending machines have been introduced, but the ones currently making waves in the US are focused on the Trading Card Game (TCG). These were first trialed in Washington in 2017, and due to their success, more grocery store chains across the US have been integrating them over the past few years.
These machines are hard to miss, boasting vibrant colors and unmistakable Pokemon branding. I recently visited one at a Kroger grocery store, where it was prominently placed right at the entrance.
Instead of traditional button-operated machines, these feature a touch screen interface. You can easily browse and select TCG items, then complete your purchase using a credit card. The buying process is enhanced with delightful Pokemon animations, making it a fun experience whether you're buying a single pack of cards or more.
After your purchase, the machine will request an email address to send a digital receipt. However, it's important to note that The Pokemon Company does not accept returns for TCG merchandise bought from these machines.
What Do Pokemon Vending Machines Sell?
Photos by The Escapist
Primarily, Pokemon vending machines in the United States stock Pokemon TCG products such as Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and other related items.
During my visit to the Pokemon TCG vending machine at Kroger during the busy Thanksgiving shopping weekend, I was pleasantly surprised to find it relatively well-stocked. While the latest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out, there were still plenty of booster packs and older trainer boxes available.
These machines typically do not carry plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other Pokemon merchandise. There are a few Pokemon Center vending machines in Washington State that offer a broader range of products, but these are being gradually replaced by the more focused TCG machines.
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How To Find a Pokemon Vending Machine Near You
You can find a comprehensive list of currently operating Pokemon TCG vending machines in the US on the Pokemon Center website. These machines are available in the following states:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Nevada
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- Wisconsin
To check if there's a machine near you, simply click on your state on the Pokemon Center website. This will provide you with a detailed list of stores hosting an official Pokemon TCG vending machine.
Currently, these machines are predominantly located in key cities within these states, rather than being spread evenly throughout. They are often found in partner grocery store chains such as Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Kroger, Pick 'n Save, Safeway, Smith's, and Tom Thumb.
If there isn't a machine in your area yet, you can "Follow" the locations list on the Pokemon Center website to receive notifications when new machines are added.
