McDonald’s has introduced new restrictions on Pokémon Happy Meal purchases in Japan to combat scalpers who overwhelmed the previous promotion. Scalpers reportedly bought large quantities of meals solely for the exclusive Pokémon cards, leading to food wastage and public outcry. In response, McDonald’s will now limit purchases to three Happy Meals per group, with stricter enforcement during the promotion period. Notably, upcoming Happy Meals will feature Pokémon toys instead of cards. The fast-food chain has apologized for the inconvenience caused and is monitoring customer feedback to adapt their sales strategies.

What measures is McDonald's taking to prevent scalpers during their Pokémon promotion?

McDonald’s is limiting purchases to a maximum of three Happy Meals per group to discourage scalping and ensure fair access to Pokémon merchandise for all customers.

The Pokémon franchise, created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori, has grown into a cultural phenomenon since its initial release in 1996. It combines the collectible card game, video games, and animated series, captivating audiences of all ages. This McDonald’s promotion is part of a broader marketing effort that leverages the franchise's immense popularity, driving demand for collectible items while also engaging families through fast food experiences.