Pokémon Company Tackles TCG Shortages, Scalpers Post-Destined Rivals Launch

The Pokémon Company has taken a significant step to address the ongoing challenges faced by fans in acquiring the latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) sets. In a recent statement, the company acknowledged the difficulties and announced plans for reprints to ensure more fans can get their hands on these coveted products.

The release of the latest set, Destined Rivals, has been marred by shortages, pre-order issues, and the actions of scalpers. This set, along with other recent releases such as Prismatic Evolutions and the Blooming Waters box, have seen unprecedented demand, making them exceedingly difficult to obtain.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Images

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In their statement, The Pokémon Company (TPC) recognized that many fans are "experiencing difficulties purchasing certain Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) products due to very high demand impacting availability." They expressed understanding of the disappointment this causes and reassured fans that they are "actively working to print more of the impacted Pokémon TCG products as quickly as possible and at maximum capacity."

The company promised that reprints will be available at participating retailers soon. Furthermore, TPC plans to "maximize production" for future TCG expansions to ensure better availability at launch and will "continue to reprint impacted products" to replenish stock, including for the Pokémon Center.

Addressing the issue of scalpers indirectly, The Pokémon Company highlighted their commitment to a "smooth purchasing experience" at the Pokémon Center. They employ technology such as a virtual queue system during periods of high site traffic to ensure products reach fans first. TPC emphasized their ongoing efforts to "explore measures that help create the best possible experience for Pokémon Center customers."

The company concluded by thanking the community for their "continued support and patience" as they strive to deliver more Pokémon TCG products to fans.

With these promises, fans are hopeful that collecting and playing the Pokémon TCG will become less stressful with the arrival of new sets.