If you're a *Pokemon* enthusiast with a social media presence, you've likely come across the buzz about Pokemon vending machines. As The Pokemon Company expands these machines across the US, fans are buzzing with questions—and we're here to provide the answers.
What Are Pokemon Vending Machines?
*Pokemon* vending machines are state-of-the-art devices that dispense a range of *Pokemon* merchandise, making it as simple as purchasing a soda—but perhaps a bit pricier. The models currently drawing attention in the US focus on *Pokemon Trading Card Game* (TCG) products. These were initially tested in Washington in 2017, and following a successful trial, they've been introduced to more grocery stores across the country.
These machines are impossible to miss, featuring vibrant colors and unmistakable *Pokemon* branding. I recently visited one at a Kroger grocery store, located right at the entrance, making it a standout attraction. Instead of traditional button-operated systems, these machines employ a user-friendly touch screen. You can browse the TCG offerings, make your selections, and complete your purchase using a credit card. The experience is enhanced with charming *Pokemon* animations, making the process of buying a pack of cards—or several—enjoyable.
After your purchase, the machine will prompt you for an email address to send a digital receipt. However, note that The Pokemon Company does not accept returns on TCG products purchased from these machines.
What Do Pokemon Vending Machines Sell?
Photos by The Escapist
In the United States, *Pokemon* vending machines primarily offer *Pokemon TCG* products, including Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and other related items. When I visited the *Pokemon TCG* vending machine at Kroger during the busy Thanksgiving shopping weekend, I found it impressively well-stocked. While the latest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out, there was a good selection of booster packs and older trainer boxes available.
These machines do not typically carry plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other types of *Pokemon* merchandise. However, a few Pokemon Center vending machines in Washington State still offer 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 complete list of operational *Pokemon TCG* vending machines in the US on the Pokemon Center website. Currently, these machines are available in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin.
To check if there's a machine near you, simply select your state on the Pokemon Center website, which will display a detailed list of stores hosting these machines. At present, they tend to be concentrated in specific cities within these states and are found in select partner grocery stores, including Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Kroger, Pick 'n Save, Safeway, Smith's, and Tom Thumb.
If there isn't a machine in your area, you can opt to "Follow" the locations list on the Pokemon Center site to receive notifications when new machines are added.
