by Las Vegas, NV – A recent viral TikTok video has sparked widespread outrage among Pokémon Trading Card Game enthusiasts after a Walmart manager in Las Vegas was caught allowing a scalper to purchase every single pack in the Pokémon card display. This incident highlights ongoing issues with scalping and favoritism in retail stores during restocks of popular collectibles.
The Viral Incident Captured on TikTok
The video, posted by Mike Romano (@mromano2003), reveals the manager, identified as “Zay,” overseeing a transaction where one individual buys the entire display of newly released Pokémon card packs, despite company policies limiting bulk purchases. Mike expresses frustration that the manager appears to be letting the scalper bypass rules because they “know them.” He is even prevented from purchasing a small crate of cards he had picked up earlier.
“Sir, you’re not going to be able to purchase those,” the manager told Mike when he tried to buy some cards.
Scalping and Its Impact on Collectors
Scalping has long been a notorious problem in the Pokémon community, with resellers buying up limited stock to resell at inflated prices. This creates barriers for genuine collectors and fans, turning the hobby into a frustrating experience.
- Scalpers often buy hundreds of packs in one purchase.
- Resold cards can double or triple the original price.
- Legitimate collectors are left without access during critical restocks.
Mike shared that within minutes of the restock, all the cards were sold to the same buyer. Attempts by the scalper to offer “two tins” to Mike were seen as insulting by viewers.
Allegations of an “Inside Job” at Walmart
Viewers of the video quickly speculated that the manager’s actions were part of a larger pattern of favoritism and insider coordination. Comments suggested the manager could have notified scalpers ahead of restocks, enabling them to buy out inventory before others had a chance.
“He most definitely probably called them people and told them that Pokémon was restocking,” a user commented.
Other Walmart employees confirmed in the comments that Pokémon cards are often kept hidden to control purchases, implying staff involvement in such sales.
Read Also: Unlock Holiday Savings with a 1-Year Costco Membership and $40 Digital Shop Card
Community Backlash and Calls for Fair Access
Fans and collectors expressed frustration that such practices damage the integrity of the Pokémon community and hobby. Many urged retailers to impose stricter controls to prevent scalpers from dominating the market.
- Major retailers like Target, Best Buy, and GameStop have purchasing limits to curb scalping.
- Walmart’s apparent leniency threatens to escalate the problem further.
- Collectors seek fair opportunity to own and enjoy rare cards without inflated prices.
For more detailed coverage of this controversy, visit Fat City Feed.
What’s Next for Pokémon Collectors?
The situation raises questions about Walmart’s response and whether policy changes will be implemented to prevent similar incidents. The Pokémon community hopes for stronger enforcement to ensure the marketplace stays fair and accessible.
What do you think about this scalping controversy and Walmart’s role? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
