Demand for Pokémon cards has reached an all-time high as fans camped out in Belfast to snag the latest collectibles. Enthusiasts waited over three hours in line, eager to get their hands on the “Scarlet and Violet- Destined Rivals” release. The batch contains rare cards valued up to £1,000 per packet, with each individual pack retailing for £4.30.
To accommodate the surge in demand, local shop owner Raymond Kilpatrick introduced an allocation system, limiting customers to ten packets per person. “The demand for Pokémon right now is as high as it’s ever been,” he said. “We’ve had to get creative with our ordering process, and unfortunately, we’re unable to fulfill orders as quickly as we’d like.”
Kilpatrick attributes the frenzy to nostalgia, as collectors buy cards to relive their childhood memories. The 30th anniversary of Pokémon marks a significant milestone in the franchise’s history, driving demand for rare and limited-edition cards.
One enthusiastic collector, known to travel from Dublin for the latest releases, demonstrated dedication to the hobby. His regular visits have become an annual tradition, as he waits patiently for the latest batch of cards.
Source: https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/demand-for-pokemon-cards-at-all-time-high-as-fans-line-up-in-belfast-from-early-morning-JB6IE42AJFAAXAC5POVP4DCJJE