Pokémon cards have long been a favourite among collectors, enthusiasts, and players alike. Over the years, the demand for these iconic cards has soared, leading to fluctuating availability and prices. As we head into 2025, many collectors are wondering if Pokémon cards are becoming harder to find and what the future holds for card availability. At Ozzie Collectables, we’re here to guide you through expected shortages and offer tips on how to buy Pokémon cards in the coming year.
Why Are Pokémon Cards Becoming Harder To Find?
In recent years, the world of Pokémon cards has experienced significant changes. While the franchise continues to thrive with new game releases, shows, and movies, the card market has faced some challenges that are making cards harder to come by. Several factors contribute to this trend:
1. Increased Demand
The demand for Pokémon cards has reached unprecedented heights in the past few years, with new collectors entering the market and seasoned enthusiasts looking to expand their collections. The resurgence of Pokémon as a pop culture phenomenon, alongside the popularity of the trading card game, has made cards highly sought after. Limited-edition sets, rare holographic cards, and nostalgic first editions are all in high demand, which has caused a strain on supply.
2. Supply Chain Issues
The COVID-19 pandemic had a massive impact on global supply chains, and the Pokémon card industry was no exception. Factory closures, shipping delays, and increased production costs have made it more difficult to meet the rising demand for cards. While some aspects of the supply chain have stabilised, the effects are still being felt in 2025, with certain sets and cards remaining difficult to find.
3. Limited-Edition and Special Sets
Specialty sets, such as anniversary releases or collaborations, often feature unique cards that attract a lot of attention. These sets are produced in limited quantities, making them more challenging to find. As collectors scramble to grab these rarer items, stores may run out of stock quickly. Additionally, the trend of secret rares and alternate artwork cards further compounds the issue, as collectors hunt for the most valuable and elusive pieces.
4. The Rise of Pokémon Card Resellers
While Pokémon cards have always been a valuable commodity, the recent surge in their worth has attracted a new breed of resellers. These individuals purchase cards in bulk, only to mark up the prices and sell them for a profit. This practice has led to empty shelves in some stores, with resellers scooping up boxes and packs as soon as they’re released. As a result, regular collectors often find themselves left out in the hunt for new stock.
What Does the Future Hold? Expected Shortages in 2025
As we move further into 2025, Pokémon card shortages are expected to continue for several reasons:
1. Ongoing Production Challenges
Despite efforts by The Pokémon Company and its manufacturing partners to ramp up production, there are still ongoing challenges related to global supply chains and material shortages. Printing and distribution issues are likely to persist for some time, meaning certain sets may remain in limited supply.
2. The Rise of Online Shopping
More and more collectors are turning to online marketplaces to purchase their cards, which can lead to higher competition for limited stock. Online platforms often sell out quickly, and with the rise of secondary market sellers, prices can skyrocket. As Pokémon cards become harder to find in physical stores, online shopping may be the primary option for many.
3. Increased Popularity of Rare and Vintage Cards
Vintage Pokémon cards are in greater demand than ever, and collectors are scrambling to secure them. As a result, finding vintage cards or first-edition cards in mint condition may become even more difficult in 2025, with prices continuing to rise as scarcity increases. The popularity of Pokémon as an investment vehicle is also expected to further drive up demand for rare cards.
4. New Releases and Set Rotations
With new sets and expansions continually being released, there will always be excitement in the Pokémon card market. However, some sets may have limited print runs, making them harder to find as the year progresses. As new sets are released, older ones may be rotated out of circulation, making those earlier sets even more valuable and difficult to track down.
How to Buy Pokémon Cards in 2025
Despite the expected shortages, there are still plenty of opportunities to build your Pokémon card collection in 2025. Here are some tips on how to successfully navigate the market:
1. Buy Early
If you’re looking to purchase new sets or special releases, it’s always a good idea to buy early. Pre-ordering from trusted retailers or placing an order as soon as a new set is announced can help you secure the cards you want before they sell out. This is especially important for limited-edition sets or highly anticipated releases.
2. Shop at Trusted Retailers
To avoid the risk of purchasing overpriced or counterfeit cards, it’s important to buy from reputable stores like Ozzie Collectables. We offer a wide selection of Pokémon cards, from booster packs to rare singles, all sourced from trusted suppliers. Shopping at established retailers ensures you’re getting authentic cards at reasonable prices.
3. Explore Online Marketplaces
In 2025, online marketplaces will be a primary source for buying Pokémon cards. Websites like Facebook and TCGPlayer are popular platforms where collectors can find a variety of cards. Be sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase to ensure a safe and reliable transaction.
4. Participate in Card Auctions
If you’re after rare or vintage cards, consider participating in card auctions. Many online auction sites offer collectible Pokémon cards, giving you the chance to secure high-value items. Auctions can be competitive, so set a budget beforehand and avoid getting caught up in bidding wars that can drive prices up.
5. Join the Pokémon Community
Being part of the Pokémon card community can provide valuable insights into where to find cards and which sets are worth pursuing. Many collectors engage in trades, and some might even offer you rare cards for sale at fair prices. Online communities, social media groups, and local events can all help you network with other enthusiasts and expand your collection.
6. Keep an Eye on Restocks
While shortages are expected, many retailers will restock popular Pokémon cards throughout the year. Sign up for notifications from your favourite stores to be alerted when new stock is available. Restocks can happen quickly, so be ready to act fast to secure the cards you want.
Conclusion
Pokémon cards are indeed becoming harder to find, with ongoing shortages expected in 2025. However, with the right strategies in place, you can still find the cards you’re looking for and continue growing your collection. Whether you’re buying early, exploring online marketplaces, or connecting with fellow collectors, there are plenty of opportunities to get your hands on rare and special Pokémon cards.
At Ozzie Collectables, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate the evolving Pokémon card market and providing access to a wide range of cards. Don’t miss out; shop with us today and stay ahead of the curve in the exciting world of Pokémon collectables!