"Discover Pokemon Vending Machines: What They Offer and Where to Find Them"

If you're a *Pokemon* fan with any kind of social media account, chances are you've started seeing Pokemon vending machine discourse. As The Pokemon Company rolls out more of these machines across the US, Pokemon fans have questions – and we've got answers.

What Are Pokemon Vending Machines?

*Pokemon* vending machines are automated marvels that dispense a variety of *Pokemon* merchandise, making it as easy as grabbing a soda – though not always as budget-friendly.

Over the years, we've seen a few different types of these machines, but the ones currently turning heads in the US are the TCG-centered models, first trialed in Washington back in 2017. That trial must have been a hit because more grocery store chains across the US have been rolling them out in recent years.

These machines are hard to miss, sporting bright colors and unmistakable *Pokemon* branding. I recently visited one at a Kroger grocery store, and it was impossible to overlook right by the store entrance.

Gone are the days of button-press vending; these machines feature a sleek touch screen. You can browse the available TCG items, make your selections, and check out with a credit card. The experience is enhanced by adorable *Pokemon* animations that make browsing and buying a pack of cards – or several – a delightful experience.

The machine will ask for your email to send you a digital receipt of your purchase. However, The Pokemon Company does not accept returns of TCG merchandise bought at these machines.

What Do Pokemon Vending Machines Sell?

Photos by The Escapist. For the most part, the *Pokemon* vending machines in the United States focus on *Pokemon TCG* products, including Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Packs, and other related items.

During my visit to the *Pokemon TCG* Vending machine at Kroger, I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was still well-stocked, even during the busy Thanksgiving shopping weekend. The newest Elite Trainer Boxes were sold out, but there were plenty of booster packs and older trainer boxes to choose from.

These machines typically do not sell plushies, t-shirts, video games, or other *Pokemon* merchandise. There are a few Pokemon Center vending machines in Washington State that offer a broader range of merch, but these are being phased out in favor of the more focused TCG machines.

Related: Best Pokemon GO Holiday Cup Little Edition Teams

How To Find a Pokemon Vending Machine Near You

The full list of currently operating *Pokemon TCG* vending machines in the US can be found on the Pokemon Center website. At the moment, vending machines are available in the following states:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Michigan
• Nevada
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Washington
• Wisconsin

To check if there's a machine near you, simply click on your state on the Pokemon Center website. You'll be able to see a comprehensive list of stores hosting an official *Pokemon TCG* vending machine.

For now, these machines are primarily clustered in a few key cities in each state rather than being evenly spread out. They are typically found in partner grocery store locations, including Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Kroger, Pick 'n Save, Safeway, Smith's, and Tom Thumb.

If there isn't a machine in your area yet, you can "Follow" the locations list on the Pokemon Center website to get notified when new ones are added.