Pokemon Vending Machines: What They Offer and Where to Locate Them

If you're a *Pokémon* enthusiast with a social media account, you've likely noticed the buzz around Pokémon vending machines. As The Pokémon Company expands these machines across the US, fans are buzzing with questions—and we have the answers you're looking for.

What Are Pokémon Vending Machines?

*Pokémon* vending machines are automated retail units that dispense a variety of *Pokémon* merchandise, making it as convenient as buying a soda—though not always as budget-friendly. The models currently gaining traction in the US focus on the *Pokémon Trading Card Game* (TCG), first tested in Washington in 2017. Their success has led to their placement in more grocery stores nationwide over recent years.

These machines are visually striking, featuring vibrant colors and clear *Pokémon* branding. I recently visited one in a Kroger store, where it was prominently placed near the entrance. Unlike traditional vending machines, these use a touch screen, allowing you to browse TCG items, make selections, and pay with a credit card. The experience is enhanced with charming *Pokémon* animations, making the purchase of a card pack—or several—an enjoyable experience.

After making your purchase, you'll be prompted to enter an email for a digital receipt. However, The Pokémon Company does not accept returns on TCG items bought from these machines.

What Do Pokémon Vending Machines Sell?

Photos by The Escapist. In the US, *Pokémon* vending machines primarily stock *Pokémon TCG* products like Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and other related items. On a recent visit to a Kroger machine during the busy Thanksgiving weekend, I found it well-stocked, though the latest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out. Older trainer boxes and various boosters were still available.

These machines do not typically sell plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other *Pokémon* merchandise. However, a few specialized Pokémon Center vending machines in Washington State offer a broader range of products, though these seem to be transitioning to the more focused TCG machines.

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How To Find a Pokémon Vending Machine Near You

You can find a comprehensive list of operational *Pokémon TCG* vending machines in the US on the Pokémon Center website. Currently, machines are available in states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin.

To check if there's a machine near you, simply select your state on the Pokémon Center website to see a detailed list of stores hosting these machines. At present, they are primarily concentrated in key cities within these states and are found in select partner grocery stores, including Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Kroger, Pick 'n Save, Safeway, Smith's, and Tom Thumb.

If your area doesn't have a machine yet, you can "Follow" the locations list on the Pokémon Center website to receive notifications when new machines are installed.