Home >  News >  What Are Pokemon Vending Machines? What They Sell and How To Find One Near You

What Are Pokemon Vending Machines? What They Sell and How To Find One Near You

Authore: OwenUpdate:Feb 26,2025

Pokemon Vending Machines: A Guide for Trainers

If you're a Pokémon fan with a social media presence, you've likely encountered discussions about Pokémon vending machines. As The Pokémon Company expands their US rollout, fans have questions – and we have the answers.

What are Pokémon Vending Machines?

Pokémon vending machines are automated dispensers offering various Pokémon merchandise, similar to purchasing a soda – though perhaps not as budget-friendly. While various types have existed, the current US focus is on TCG-centric models initially piloted in Washington in 2017. This trial's success led to wider deployment across US grocery stores.

These machines are visually appealing, featuring vibrant colors and clear Pokémon branding. Easily spotted, often near store entrances (as observed in a Kroger store). Unlike older button-operated models, they utilize touch screens for browsing and selecting TCG items, with credit card checkout. The process includes charming Pokémon animations, enhancing the experience of purchasing card packs. Digital receipts are emailed, but returns are not accepted.

What do Pokémon Vending Machines Sell?

Pokemon Vending Machine Pictures

Photos by The Escapist
Primarily, US Pokémon vending machines stock Pokémon TCG products: Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and related items. A recent visit revealed good stock levels even during a busy shopping period, although the newest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out. Plushies, apparel, video games, and other merchandise are generally unavailable. A smaller number of Pokémon Center vending machines in Washington State previously offered a broader selection, but these appear to be transitioning to the more focused TCG model.

How to Find a Pokémon Vending Machine

The official Pokémon Center website provides a complete list of currently operational US Pokémon TCG vending machines. Currently, machines are located in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin. To locate nearby machines, select your state on the website for a store list with vending machines.

Distribution is currently concentrated in specific cities within each state, primarily within partner grocery stores: Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Frys, Kroger, Pick ‘n Save, Safeway, Smith’s, and Tom Thumb. The Pokémon Center website allows users to "Follow" the locations list for notifications on new machine additions.