Shopping News
Asian collectible store Pop Mart opens first Dallas outlet at Galleria
Pop Mart toys are not at all creepy.
A global designer toy and entertainment store is coming to Dallas: Called Pop Mart, it's a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for fans of art, toys, and pop culture that is opening at Galleria Dallas on March 29.
Pop Mart was founded in Beijing, China, in 2010 by college student Wang Ning who was only 22 at the time. Pop Mart now has a devoted following worldwide, with more than 450 stores in over 30 countries, plus 2,300 Robo Shops (blind box vending machines), as well as collaborations with brands such as Uniqlo, Crocs, Disney, Universal, and more. Blind boxes have toys hidden inside that you can't see when you buy them — a convention that started in Japan.
To make their toys special, Pop Mart teamed up with artists which added cachet as well as monetary value, with limited-ediitons that made them collectible and therefore prized.
This is the first store in the Dallas area but the fifth in Texas, following four stores in the Houston area. It's the 24th brick-and-mortar location as the global brand continues its rapid expansion in the U.S.
At the Galleria store, visitors can expect an immersive environment showcasing Pop Mart characters such as Molly, Hirono, The Monsters, and Skullpanda, with exclusive releases, limited editions, and unexpected collaborations.
Larry Lu, Head of Pop Mart North America head Larry Lu says in a statement that the new store will not only feature designer toys, it will "create a space where fans can discover new and exciting collectibles, connect with like-minded individuals, and unleash their inner creativity. We are eager to continue growing our presence in the South and engage with our loyal fans and collectors across the country."
The store will offer specials on grand opening day, including vinyl plush dolls, accessories, and blind boxes from The Monster series that include several sold out and sought-after collections. Appearing at the grand opening will be Libby Frame, Pop Mart's first US-based artist and the creator of Peach Riot, a series about Frankie, Poppy, and Gigi, three high school students in a band. She'll sign items that customers have purchased from 2- 4 pm.
