As GameFreak, The Pokémon Company, and Nintendo grapple with the latest leaks regarding their gaming plans, a new Pokémon card vending machine is capturing attention in France. This innovative system, already a hit in the United States and Japan, has made its grand debut in the country, drawing large crowds.
A Pokémon Card Vending Machine in Caen
Located in the shopping gallery of the Côte de Nacre shopping center in Caen, a new vending machine is drawing crowds. Instead of sodas or snacks, it dispenses Pokémon cards, creating such excitement that even parents are getting involved. One father spoke to Le Parisien, stating, “My 11-year-old son asked for a pack from a specific series. It feels modern, and it reminds me of my youth!” Launched at the end of September, the machine, managed by Valentin Lantez, owner of Pokeseller 14, offers around fifty different card packs starting at €6.90 each.
@pokeseller14 Introducing the First Pokémon Vending Machine in Caen #pokemon #caen #fyp #boosterpokemon #cartepokemon 🎵 original sound – Pokeseller14
Rapid Sales and Consumer Enthusiasm
In just two weeks, over 3,000 items have been sold. “I expected to sell three times less!” exclaimed the young entrepreneur who was inspired by these machines he encountered in Japan, where they are very common. Regular customer Maxime, 26, shared, “It’s become difficult to find them elsewhere, so it’s convenient to buy some while I’m here,” holding a pack from the Lightning Bolt series. Like him, many have rekindled their passion for Pokémon, navigating a blend of nostalgia and enthusiasm.
However, this vending machine raises several questions. Can the source of the packs be verified? If not officially licensed, it could potentially contain packs filled with low-quality items. Yet its creator assures customers that “everything is unweighed and unfiltered“, with boosters sourced from “sealed displays.” More informed consumers may still prefer purchasing online, but the success of this venture could lead to more machines like this one appearing across France.

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