If you're a *Pokemon* fan with any kind of social media account, 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 clarify your questions.
What Are Pokemon Vending Machines?
*Pokemon* vending machines are sleek, automated units that dispense a range of *Pokemon* merchandise, making it as simple as buying a soda – though perhaps not as budget-friendly. The models currently gaining traction in the US are focused on the Trading Card Game (TCG) and were initially trialed in Washington back in 2017. The positive response led to their expansion into more grocery store chains nationwide in recent years.
These machines are visually striking, adorned with vibrant colors and unmistakable *Pokemon* branding. I recently visited one at a Kroger store, and it was impossible to miss right by the entrance. Instead of traditional buttons, these machines feature a user-friendly touch screen. You can browse through the available TCG items, make your selections, and complete your purchase with a credit card. The process is enhanced with charming *Pokemon* animations, making it a delightful experience to pick up a pack of cards – or several.
Upon purchase, the machine will prompt you for an email address to send a digital receipt. However, it's important to note that The Pokemon Company does not accept returns on TCG merchandise bought from these machines.
What Do Pokemon Vending Machines Sell?
Photos by The Escapist
Primarily, the *Pokemon* vending machines in the United States are stocked with *Pokemon TCG* products, such as Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and other related items. During my visit to a *Pokemon TCG* vending machine at Kroger over the busy Thanksgiving shopping weekend, I was pleased to see it was still well-stocked. While the latest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out, there were plenty of booster packs and older trainer boxes available.
These machines typically do not offer plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other *Pokemon* merchandise. However, a small number of Pokemon Center vending machines in Washington State do carry a broader range of products, though these are gradually being 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. 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 to see a detailed list of stores hosting these machines. Currently, they tend to be concentrated in select cities within each state and are primarily found in partner grocery stores 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.
