The Pokémon Company International announced plans to open its first permanent physical store outside Asia in London, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion. The new shop is expected to open in 2029 and will serve as the initial step toward launching additional Pokémon retail locations worldwide.
Founded in Japan in 1996, Pokémon has developed into one of the most prominent children’s entertainment franchises globally. The brand, managed outside Asia by The Pokémon Company International, is jointly owned by Nintendo and two other companies. Over the past three decades, Pokémon has grown from a video game series into a broad multimedia franchise that includes trading cards, television shows, films, and mobile games.
Gaku Susai, chief product and experience officer at The Pokémon Company International, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering unique experiences for fans. He described the new London store as an immersive destination designed to bring fans both old and new into the world of Pokémon, fostering a sense of community among visitors.
London has previously hosted temporary Pokémon presences, including pop-up shops and the Pokémon European International Championships, which took place at the Excel Centre in east London. The upcoming permanent store is set to feature exclusive merchandise, continuing the tradition of offering unique products to fans.
The new retail location aims to provide a space where enthusiasts can gather, enjoy the Pokémon universe, and engage with the brand in ways beyond traditional media. This initiative reflects Pokémon’s ongoing popularity surge and its strategy to deepen connections with its global audience through physical venues.