POP MART and the issue of BOTS

POP MART, the leader in designer toys and blind boxes, is under fire from collectors as bots continue to dominate new releases. Every time a sought-after figurine or collection drops, bots claim the products within minutes, leaving dedicated fans empty-handed. Many believe these bots are operated by resellers looking to flip the limited-edition items at inflated prices.

For loyal POP MART fans, the thrill of collecting has been overshadowed by frustration. “It’s impossible to buy anything directly,” one fan vented. “I’ll see a figure sell out in seconds, and minutes later it’s on resale sites for double or even triple the price.”

While other brands have taken proactive steps to combat bot activity through pre-order windows, lotteries, or enhanced anti-bot security, POP MART appears reluctant to follow suit. Despite being aware of the issue, many collectors believe the company is turning a blind eye, as the current system ensures rapid sellouts that generate immediate revenue and hype. This perception has fueled growing resentment among fans, who feel abandoned by the brand they love.

Collectors are urging POP MART to take meaningful steps to protect the community, suggesting measures like in-store exclusives, more transparent lotteries, or better monitoring of online purchases. Without decisive action, many fear the joy of collecting will continue to diminish, as bots and resellers monopolize the market.

With the Shanghai Pop Toy Show approaching from October 18-20, the spotlight will once again be on POP MART to see how they manage future releases. Fans are holding onto hope that the company will prioritize them over profits before their frustration turns into a loss of loyalty.