Charles Esther
Pop Mart, the Chinese toymaker behind the popular Labubu toy, has announced a temporary pause on in-store sales of Labubu products across the UK.
This decision comes after large crowds formed outside their physical stores, raising safety concerns.
The company shared the update in an Instagram post, explaining the reasons behind the pause.
High Demand and Long Queues Cause Safety Concerns
Pop Mart noted that the demand for Labubu toys has surged significantly in the UK.
On restock days, long lines of customers have been seen outside Pop Mart stores and their vending machine-style Roboshops.
The queues sometimes stretch around buildings, causing logistical and safety issues.
To address these concerns, Pop Mart decided to halt all physical and Roboshop sales of Labubu plush toys temporarily.
This pause aims to ensure the safety and comfort of customers and staff alike.
Online Sales Continue as Usual
Despite pausing in-store sales, Pop Mart confirmed that online sales of Labubu toys will continue without interruption.
This allows fans to still purchase their favourite toys, just not from physical UK locations for now.
Labubu Fever Spreads Across the UK
The craze for Labubu, a furry plush toy featuring serrated teeth, has expanded beyond Asia into Western markets like the UK.
Videos on TikTok show enthusiastic fans queuing for hours at Pop Mart stores, including locations like the Bullring shopping centre in Birmingham.
Some clips reveal barricades set up to organise the long lines of hopeful buyers.
Blind Box Toys Increase the Excitement
Labubu toys are sold in blind boxes, meaning customers do not know which design they will get before opening the box.
This element of surprise fuels the excitement and demand, as collectors seek to complete various designs.
In Singapore, Pop Mart staff revealed that stores are restocked twice weekly with only a few hundred figurines, which often sell out in minutes.
Pop Mart’s Strong Sales in 2024
Labubu and the related Monsters toy line have been major revenue drivers for Pop Mart.
In 2024, sales from these products reached about $426 million, making up nearly a quarter of Pop Mart’s total revenue, according to the company’s annual report.
Conclusion
Pop Mart’s temporary pause on physical Labubu sales in the UK reflects the huge popularity of the toy and the company’s commitment to customer safety.
While fans must wait longer for in-store purchases, online sales remain available.
This pause also highlights how the toy’s viral success has spread globally, creating unprecedented demand in new markets.
Pop Mart’s ability to manage this craze carefully will be key to maintaining customer satisfaction and safety in the coming months.
