The Pokémon Company has announced plans for a significant retail expansion, with the first permanent Pokémon Center outside of Asia scheduled to open in London by 2029. This initiative aims to bring dedicated physical retail experiences to fans in new regions.
Currently, Pokémon merchandise is primarily available through online channels for most fans worldwide. While Japan boasts numerous physical Pokémon Center stores, locations in Singapore and Taiwan have also been established, with Thailand set to open a store by the end of this year. The upcoming London store is intended to offer a variety of merchandise and unique experiences for Pokémon enthusiasts of all ages.
"This new London store will give visitors the chance to step into the world of Pokémon, whether they’re discovering the brand for the first time or have been Trainers for years," said Gaku Susai, The Pokémon Company International chief product and experience officer. He expressed hope that the store will become a community hub where fans can connect and experience the "magic of Pokémon."
The London location is slated to be the first of several permanent Pokémon stores planned for regions outside of Asia, though further details on these future locations have not yet been released. Historically, pop-up stores have appeared in various countries, and a permanent Pokémon store briefly operated in New York City in the early 2000s before transitioning into a general Nintendo Store.
This retail expansion coincides with a year of significant activity for the Pokémon franchise, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2026. Recent releases include the critically acclaimed Pokémon Pokopia, nostalgia-driven ports of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen for Nintendo Switch, and a wide array of merchandise such as a mini Pokémon jukebox, a Snorlax rug, luggage designed for plushies, Lego sets, Polaroid cameras, and Adidas collaborations.