Pokemon to open first permanent non-Asian store in London by 2029, shifting from pop-ups

The Pokémon Company announced a permanent retail store in London, United Kingdom, with an opening target of 2029. This facility represents the brand's first permanent physical retail presence outside of Asia, moving beyond the temporary pop-up model that has characterized its recent UK market activity.

What does this expansion mean for operations?

The move signals a transition from short-term promotional events to long-term operational commitments. Gaku Susai, chief product and experience officer at The Pokémon Company International, stated the goal is to create unique and memorable experiences for fans. The company intends for this London location to serve as the first of several permanent stores planned for regions outside Asia.

How does this differ from previous UK activity?

Recent UK engagement has relied on temporary installations, such as a 2026 pop-up at The Natural History Museum in London. That event sold apparel, stationery, and exclusive plush toys, drawing large crowds. The new permanent store aims to provide a consistent destination for both new discoverers and long-term fans, offering a stable venue for merchandise and experiences.

What inventory and experiences are planned?

The company described the London space as the ultimate destination for fans. It will stock exclusive merchandise and offer one-of-a-kind experiences. While specific product lines beyond general exclusives were not detailed in the announcement, the focus remains on deepening brand engagement through physical interaction and dedicated retail space.

What is the timeline for further expansion?

The London store is scheduled to open by 2029. The Pokémon Company indicated this is the first of multiple permanent locations planned outside Asia. No additional dates or specific cities for subsequent stores were provided in the initial report, leaving the broader rollout schedule undefined for the time being.

Questions to ask your suppliers

Teams usually review how physical retail expansions impact supply chain logistics and local compliance requirements. Check whether vendors have updated their risk assessments for new geographic markets. Determine if inventory management systems can handle the shift from temporary to permanent stock levels. Ensure legal teams have reviewed local consumer protection laws and retail regulations. Communicate these requirements to procurement and operations leads to align expectations.

What to do and how to stay safe: The Pokémon Company

• Monitor official announcements for specific opening dates and location details.
• Review local business registration requirements if planning similar retail expansions.
• Assess supply chain capacity for sustained product availability in new regions.
• Track competitor movements in the permanent retail space for market context.

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Frequently asked questions

When will the new Pokémon store open in London?

The Pokémon Company states the store will open by 2029.

Is this the first permanent Pokémon store outside Asia?

Yes, it is the first permanent physical retail space for the brand outside of Asia.

Will there be more stores after the London location?

The company said this is the first of several permanent stores planned outside Asia.