GameStop Keeps Hiking Pokémon Card Prices Above MSRP
GameStop has been steadily increasing prices on Pokémon TCG products, with markups now rivaling reseller prices. Sleeved booster packs that typically retail for $4.99 are being sold at $6.99, while some products have seen much steeper hikes. A GameStop exclusive Ultra Premium Collection originally sold at $180 is now listed at $274.99, and employees report the Charizard UPC has jumped from its $119.99 MSRP to $249.99.
Despite widespread complaints, customers continue buying at the inflated prices, which some GameStop employees say has only encouraged further increases. Workers at multiple locations report being instructed to print new, higher price tags, with some comparing the practice to dynamic pricing based on real-time demand. Fans and employees alike have pointed out that the markups are creating a cycle where scalpers then raise their own prices in response.
