The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is abuzz with the release of its highly anticipated set, Prismatic Evolutions, slated for January 17, 2025. Highlighting the ever-popular Eevee and its evolutions, the set has become a must-have for collectors and players alike. Unfortunately, the excitement surrounding this release is marred by supply shortages, scalper activity, and skyrocketing prices.
Limited Supply and Distribution Issues
Despite efforts by The Pokémon Company International (TPCi) to match production levels with demand, local game stores are reporting drastically reduced allocations. Many shops are receiving only 10-15% of their requested stock. This shortage is attributed to the involvement of non-traditional retailers seeking to profit from the set’s hype, cutting into the inventory for long-time Pokémon retailers.
According to Ben DeGuire, owner of Player 1 Services in Maryland:
“Distributors are trying to satisfy as many accounts as possible, which means less stock for dedicated Pokémon shops.”
For more details, visit PokéBeach.
Scalping: Driving Up Prices
The scarcity has created fertile ground for scalpers—individuals purchasing bulk stock to resell at inflated prices. For example, the Elite Trainer Box, retailing at $55, is now listed on secondary markets for an average of $127. This has left genuine fans struggling to afford their favorite products.
Some store owners, like Anne Smith of The Retro Emporium in Kent, Washington, have chosen not to stock the set at all due to harassment and security concerns linked to scalping. Smith reports experiencing break-ins and threats over Pokémon product releases.
Read more about Anne’s decision on Wargamer.
Frustrated Collectors and Market Speculation
The combination of low supply and scalping has led many dedicated collectors to step back from purchasing this set, unwilling to pay inflated prices or support unethical practices. This sentiment is not new, as similar frustrations arose during the Pokémon TCG boom in recent years.
Adding to the frenzy, specific cards like the Umbreon ex – Special Illustration Rare are already fetching pre-release prices exceeding $1,000 on auction sites. Speculators continue to inflate the market, making it even harder for the average fan to enjoy the hobby.
Explore more on TCGRocks.
A Call for Change
The challenges surrounding Prismatic Evolutions highlight the need for improved distribution practices to balance supply and demand. While TPCi has yet to announce additional print runs for this set, the community hopes for changes to address the growing concerns.
Until then, fans are encouraged to:
Support local game stores that practice fair pricing.
Engage with the Pokémon community through local events or forums to trade and purchase cards at reasonable rates.
Avoid paying exorbitant prices on secondary markets whenever possible.
For an in-depth discussion, check out this podcast:The Rabbit Hole Report
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