If you’ve ever wanted to visit one of the several Pokémon Center stores across Asia but been unable to make the trip, good news: it sounds like The Pokémon Company is finally expanding to new locations around the world with new permanent stores, starting with a London location in 2029.
The company put out an announcement on its official website confirming that the London store will be the “first of several” permanent stores opening around the world, though it doesn’t mention any other specific territories.
“We are always exploring new opportunities that help us create unique and memorable experiences for our fans,” Chief Product and Experience Officer at The Pokémon Company International Gaku Susai said in a statement. “This new London store will give visitors the chance to step into the world of Pokémon, whether they’re discovering the brand for the first time or have been Trainers for years. We hope it becomes a place where everyone can come together, feel like part of a community and enjoy the magic of Pokémon in a whole new way.”
The Pokémon Centers in Asia often draw tourists, fans, and scalpers from across the world, featuring exclusive merchandise and some impressive statues and displays that you won’t see anywhere else. We used to have one here in the States in New York City, but that has since been converted into the Nintendo New York store that sells Pokémon merch alongside items based on all things Nintendo. You can still see a bit of its history at the store, however, as the door handles to enter the establishment are still shaped like Poké Balls.