Scalpers are buying up all the Pokémon cards and other trading cards at an alarming rate, leaving true fans and collectors without a chance to get their hands on these cherished items. It's disheartening to watch as we, genuine enthusiasts, are priced out by individuals and groups who are only interested in making a profit. Stores like Walmart, Target, and others do next to nothing to create a fair experience. Online, bots take over. Just today Walmart had an early cyber Monday Pokémon set bundle for $74. Within an hour the same set was sold out and resisted for over $200.

The rise in scalping has made it increasingly difficult for those of us who love the game and the community around it to participate. Many of us have fond memories tied to our collections, and when every new release is snatched up by resellers who inflate prices beyond reasonable limits, it undermines the spirit of collecting. It is crucial that manufacturers like The Pokémon Company, as well as retailers such as Walmart and Target, take steps to enforce purchase limits and utilize tools like online queue systems to ensure fairer distribution.

According to a report by the NPD Group, sales of Pokémon cards have skyrocketed by over 600% in the past year, illustrating both their popularity and the extent to which scalpers have capitalized on demand. This situation is not just affecting card collectors; it's disrupting a joyful hobby that traditionally brings people together, from children to adults.

We propose that companies enforcing these measures also collaborate with online platforms, ensuring that unauthorized resell listings with exorbitant markups are removed promptly. Educating the community about the importance of fair trading practices and penalizing offenders who exploit the system can also serve as a deterrent.

By working together, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers can help curb scalping, making trading cards accessible to those who truly appreciate them. Let's bring back the joy of collecting for everyone. Please sign this petition to stand against scalping and demand fairer trading card distribution practices.