Pokémon to Launch First Permanent Western Store in London by 2029

Key points

• The first permanent Pokémon store outside Asia is slated to open in London by 2029.
• The store will offer exclusive merchandise and 'one-of-a-kind experiences' for fans of all ages.
• London has previously hosted pop-up Pokémon shops, including one at the Natural History Museum in 2026.
• The Pokémon Company International confirmed this is the first of several planned permanent locations outside Asia.
• No specific locations for future stores have been announced, though New York is a potential candidate given its history.

Background

The Pokémon brand has historically relied on pop-up events in Western markets, such as the recent Pokémon Night Out events in London and Los Angeles in late 2026. The only previous permanent Pokémon store outside Asia was Pokémon Center New York, which opened in 2001 but was converted into a Nintendo flagship store in 2005. This new expansion follows a period of increased physical engagement, including location-specific raids and anniversary celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the franchise.

How outlets are covering it

Engadget and Kotaku both highlight the significance of this move as a major expansion for fans outside Asia, noting that previous options were limited to travel or temporary pop-ups. Kotaku emphasizes the cultural impact of Pokémon Centers in Japan as tourist attractions, while Engadget focuses on the accessibility for Western fans. PokeBeach provides historical context, noting that London has hosted pop-ups since 2019, which may have helped gauge demand. All sources agree that the London store will feature exclusive merchandise, but only Engadget and Kotaku quote Gaku Susai, The Pokémon Company International's chief product and experience officer, regarding the goal of creating community experiences. No source provides specific details on future locations beyond the confirmation that more are planned.

Why it matters

This expansion marks a strategic shift for The Pokémon Company, moving from temporary pop-ups to permanent retail infrastructure in Western markets. It addresses the long-standing demand for accessible, dedicated Pokémon retail spaces outside Asia, potentially reducing the need for fans to travel to Japan for exclusive merchandise and experiences. The move also signals a broader global strategy to strengthen brand presence in key markets like the UK and potentially the US.

What to watch

The Pokémon Company has stated it will reveal details about additional physical locations in the future. The London store is expected to open by 2029, with no specific address or opening date announced yet. Fans will need to wait for further announcements to learn about potential stores in other Western markets, such as New York or other major cities.