"Discover Pokemon Vending Machines: What They Offer and Locations Near You"

If you’re a *Pokemon* fan with any kind of social media account, you’ve likely noticed the buzz around Pokemon vending machines. As The Pokemon Company expands these machines across the US, fans are buzzing with questions – and we’re here to provide the answers you need.

What Are Pokemon Vending Machines?

*Pokemon* vending machines are automated wonders that dispense a variety of *Pokemon* merchandise, making it as simple as grabbing a snack – though perhaps not as budget-friendly. These machines have evolved over time, but the current focus in the US is on the TCG-centered models, which were first piloted in Washington back in 2017. Their success has led to a broader rollout to various grocery store chains nationwide.

These machines are hard to miss, sporting vibrant colors and unmistakable *Pokemon* branding. I recently visited one at a Kroger grocery store, and it was prominently placed right by the entrance. Unlike older models, these use a user-friendly touch screen, allowing you to browse and select TCG items before checking out with a credit card. The experience is enhanced with delightful *Pokemon* animations that make buying a pack of cards – or several – an enjoyable experience.

You’ll be prompted to enter an email address for a digital receipt of your purchase. However, be aware that The Pokemon Company does not accept returns on TCG merchandise bought from these machines.

What Do Pokemon Vending Machines Sell?

Primarily, *Pokemon* vending machines in the US are stocked with *Pokemon TCG* products such as Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and related items. On my visit to the *Pokemon TCG* Vending machine at Kroger during the busy Thanksgiving shopping weekend, I was pleasantly surprised to see it well-stocked. Although the latest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out, there were still plenty of Booster Packs and older Trainer Boxes available.

These machines typically do not offer plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other *Pokemon* merchandise. However, a small number of Pokemon Center vending machines in Washington State carry a broader range of products, though these are gradually being replaced by the more focused TCG machines.

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How To Find a Pokemon Vending Machine Near You

You can find a comprehensive list of currently operating *Pokemon TCG* vending machines in the US on the Pokemon Center website. Machines are currently available in the following states: 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 click on your state on the Pokemon Center website, and you'll see a list of stores hosting these machines.

These machines tend to be concentrated in a few key cities within each state and are often found in select partner grocery stores such as Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Kroger, Pick ‘n Save, Safeway, Smith’s, and Tom Thumb.

If there isn’t a machine in your area yet, you can “Follow” the locations list on the Pokemon Center website to receive notifications when new machines are added.