Pokemon rolls out brilliant solution to stop scalpers

Pokemon Center has listened to the community’s feedback and rolled out a solution to combat scalpers.

For years now, scalpers have been a massive issue in the Pokemon community. Not only can scalpers make fans miserable by going the extra mile to empty out shelves before anyone else can reach them, but it’s no secret some have also triggered physical alterations.

Even with measures that stores have previously applied to prevent them from making a profit, it’s still not been enough to get rid of them completely. 

Though things are looking up this time around as a result of a satisfying new measure, as seen with the release of a new merchandise line called PIKACHU DINER.

Pokemon Center announces “Make-to-Order” sales

On July 5, 2025, Pokemon Center in Japan launched the PIKACHU DINER merchandise line, which features a plethora of items with the theme of classic chubby Pikachu in a diner, packaged with cute and retro-style art. For instance, one of the items includes a Pikachu plush holding a heart.

These products quickly became viral among fans, mainly due to the chubby Pikachu design. However, they are also tough to get as not everyone can have the chance to grab them.

As reported by Nintendosoup, to be able to buy these on launch day, fans had to participate in a lottery to even enter the Pokemon Center.

Due to this policy, scalpers who could get in were soon selling them on flea market sites with exorbitant prices.

Naturally, fans weren’t happy about this, as they voiced their frustrations to the Pokemon Company, begging for them to opt for make-to-order sales. 

Well, the complaints have indeed been heard. It has been announced that they’ll immediately start taking make-to-order orders for the PIKACHU DINER series plushies and mascots once they run out. 

As for other products in the merchandise line, these are promised to be restocked in the future. Though right now, they have yet to plan a make-to-order sale for them.

The make-to-order production should make things easier for fans who would like to purchase these items, and they wouldn’t have to spend a ton of money getting them from scalpers online.