Complete Shopping Guide for Pop Mart’s Most Popular Collectible Figure
The collectible toy market has exploded in recent years, with designer toys and vinyl figures capturing the hearts of collectors worldwide. Among these coveted collectibles, one character stands out as particularly beloved: Labubu, Pop Mart’s flagship character that has become a global phenomenon. If you’re wondering where to buy Labubu figures and how to navigate the complex world of collectible toy shopping, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know.
What is Labubu?
Labubu are forest-dwelling elves with 9 teeth and upright ears, they are a group of about a hundred elves and are about the height of a cat.Labubu are quirky and curious about everything, although they are mischievous, they are optimistic and kind. No one knows when the Labubu were born, only that they are ancient creatures that have been living carefree in the forest even longer than the Jurassic Era, and that the Labubu are girls
Pop Mart, the Chinese entertainment company that has revolutionized the collectible toy industry, secured the licensing rights to Labubu and transformed it into one of the most recognizable figures in the designer toy world. Since its debut, Labubu has spawned numerous series, each featuring different themes, colors, and accessories that keep collectors coming back for more.
Official Pop Mart Channels
Pop Mart Official Website
The most reliable and authentic source for purchasing Labubu figures is the official Pop Mart website. Available in multiple regions including the United States, Europe, and Asia, the official site offers several advantages:
- Guaranteed authenticity with official certificates
- Latest releases and exclusive collections
- Competitive pricing without middleman markups
- Customer support for any issues or concerns
- Loyalty programs and member benefits
The website typically stocks both current releases and limited-edition series. However, popular items often sell out quickly, so timing is crucial when shopping official channels.
Pop Mart Physical Stores
Pop Mart has been rapidly expanding its physical retail presence worldwide. Their flagship stores offer an immersive shopping experience where collectors can:
- See products in person before purchasing
- Participate in blind box opening events
- Access store-exclusive releases
- Meet other collectors and build community connections
As of 2024, Pop Mart operates stores in major cities across Asia, Europe, and North America. The company has announced plans to open over 100 new international stores by 2025, making Labubu more accessible to collectors globally.
Pop Mart Mobile App
The Pop Mart app has become increasingly popular among collectors, offering features that enhance the collecting experience:
- AR scanning to verify authenticity
- Collection tracking and wishlist management
- Push notifications for new releases
- Exclusive app-only promotions
- Community features for connecting with other collectors
Authorized Retailers
Major Toy Retailers
Several established toy retailers have partnered with Pop Mart to offer Labubu figures:
Hot Topic has emerged as one of the most prominent authorized retailers in North America, regularly stocking popular Labubu series in both their physical stores and online platform. Their partnership with Pop Mart has made designer toys more accessible to mainstream consumers.
BoxLunch, another major retailer, has expanded their collectible offerings to include Labubu figures, often bundling them with exclusive accessories or packaging.
Entertainment Earth and BigBadToyStore cater specifically to collectors, offering pre-orders for upcoming releases and maintaining extensive inventories of past series.
Specialty Collectible Stores
Independent collectible stores often carry Labubu figures and may offer additional services:
- Tenacious Toys (New York) – Known for their curated selection and expert knowledge
- Martian Toys (Multiple locations) – Offers both online and in-store shopping
- Five Points Festival vendors – Regular participants in major toy conventions
These specialty retailers often have knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into upcoming releases and help build your collection strategically.
International Distributors
For collectors outside major markets, authorized international distributors provide access to Labubu figures:
- Mighty Jaxx (Singapore) – Covers Southeast Asian markets
- Forbidden Planet (UK) – Primary distributor for European markets
- Hobbylink Japan – Offers international shipping with competitive rates
Online Marketplaces
Amazon
Amazon has become a significant marketplace for Labubu figures, with both official Pop Mart stores and third-party sellers offering products. When shopping on Amazon:
Look for the “Ships from and sold by Amazon” designation to ensure authenticity and reliable customer service. Third-party sellers may offer rare or discontinued figures, but prices can be significantly higher than retail.
Amazon Prime members often receive priority access to lightning deals and exclusive releases, making membership worthwhile for serious collectors.
eBay
eBay remains one of the largest secondary markets for Labubu figures, particularly for rare and discontinued series. Success on eBay requires careful attention to:
Seller ratings and feedback – Look for sellers with 99%+ positive feedback and extensive transaction histories in collectibles.
Detailed photographs – Authentic listings should include multiple high-resolution photos from various angles.
Return policies – Reputable sellers offer reasonable return windows and clear authenticity guarantees.
According to eBay’s 2023 collectibles report, Labubu figures consistently rank among the top-selling designer toys, with some rare variants selling for 10-20 times their original retail price.
Mercari and Depop
These peer-to-peer marketplaces have gained popularity among younger collectors:
Mercari offers buyer protection programs and has implemented AI-powered authenticity checks for high-value collectibles.
Depop focuses on community building, allowing collectors to follow favorite sellers and discover new releases through social features.
Specialty Collectible Platforms
MyPlasticHeart
This New York-based collectible platform specializes in designer toys and vinyl figures. MyPlasticHeart offers:
- Curated selections of Labubu figures
- Pre-order opportunities for upcoming releases
- Expert reviews and collecting guides
- Convention coverage and exclusive interviews
Clutter Gallery
Known for their expertise in art toys and designer collectibles, Clutter Gallery provides:
- Authentication services for high-value purchases
- Consignment programs for selling rare pieces
- Educational content about artists and series
ToyQube
This platform focuses specifically on Asian designer toys and offers:
- Direct importing from Asian markets
- Competitive pricing on current releases
- Cultural context and background information
How much is a labubu and Pricing
How much does a labubu cost
As Pop Mart’s home market, Asia offers the most comprehensive selection and competitive pricing:
China – Complete availability with retail prices typically ranging from ¥59-¥79 ($8-$11 USD) for standard series.
Japan – Strong collector community with specialized retailers offering both current and vintage pieces.
South Korea – Growing market with increasing retail presence and competitive pricing.
North America
The North American market has seen significant growth, with retail prices typically ranging from $12-$15 USD for standard figures:
United States – Widest selection of authorized retailers and fastest shipping options.
Canada – More limited availability with higher prices due to import costs and currency exchange.
Europe
European availability varies significantly by country:
United Kingdom – Best availability in Europe through Forbidden Planet and other specialty retailers.
Germany and France – Growing markets with increasing retail partnerships.
Nordic countries – Limited physical retail but strong online marketplace presence.
Authentication and Avoiding Counterfeits
The popularity of Labubu figures has unfortunately led to a significant counterfeit market. Authentic figures can be verified through several methods:
Official Authentication Methods
Pop Mart’s QR codes – Newer releases include QR codes that can be scanned through the official app for verification.
Packaging quality – Authentic figures feature high-quality printing, consistent colors, and proper Pop Mart branding.
Material quality – Genuine Labubu figures use high-grade PVC with smooth finishes and precise details.
Red Flags to Avoid
Unusually low prices – Be skeptical of prices significantly below retail, especially for popular or limited editions.
Poor packaging quality – Blurry printing, incorrect fonts, or missing trademark symbols indicate counterfeits.
Seller location discrepancies – Be cautious of sellers claiming to ship from one location while being based elsewhere.
Limited return policies – Authentic retailers typically offer reasonable return windows and buyer protection.
Pricing Guide and Value Considerations
Retail Pricing Structure
Standard Labubu figures typically retail for:
- Regular series: $12-$15 USD
- Special editions: $18-$25 USD
- Limited releases: $30-$50 USD
- Artist collaborations: $40-$80 USD
Secondary Market Values
Popular series can appreciate significantly in value:
The Monsters series (2019) – Original retail $12, current secondary market $40-$80
Labubu × BAPE collaboration (2021) – Original retail $45, current value $150-$300
Golden Labubu variants – Can reach $500+ depending on series and condition
Collectible toy expert Dr. Susan Chen notes, “Labubu’s value retention and appreciation rates rival traditional collectibles like vintage action figures, making them legitimate investment pieces for serious collectors.”
Tips for Successful Collecting
Building a Collection Strategy
Focus on complete series rather than random purchases to maximize both enjoyment and potential value.
Set a budget and stick to it – the blind box model can lead to overspending if not carefully managed.
Track release calendars through official Pop Mart channels and collector communities.
Storage and Display
Proper storage maintains both aesthetic appeal and resale value:
UV protection – Keep figures away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Climate control – Stable temperature and humidity prevent material degradation.
Original packaging – Maintain boxes and certificates for maximum value retention.
Community Engagement
The Labubu collecting community offers valuable resources:
Facebook groups like “Labubu Collectors Worldwide” provide trading opportunities and release information.
Instagram accounts such as @labubu_official offer official updates and sneak peeks.
Reddit communities r/labubu and r/popmart facilitate discussions and authentication help.
Future of Labubu Collecting
Market Trends
The collectible toy market is projected to reach $18.6 billion by 2026, with designer toys like Labubu driving significant growth. Several trends are shaping the future:
Digital integration – NFT partnerships and augmented reality features are becoming more common.
Sustainability focus – Pop Mart has announced initiatives to use more environmentally friendly materials.
Global expansion – Continued international growth is making Labubu more accessible worldwide.
Upcoming Releases
Pop Mart has announced several exciting developments for 2024-2025:
New artist collaborations with internationally recognized designers
Interactive figures featuring digital components
Larger scale productions including 6-inch and 12-inch variants
Kasing Lung, Labubu’s creator, recently stated in an interview with Designer Toy Chronicle: “We’re constantly evolving Labubu while maintaining the core essence that collectors love. The next few years will bring exciting innovations that push the boundaries of what collectible figures can be.”
Conclusion
Finding authentic Labubu figures requires knowledge, patience, and strategic shopping. By utilizing official channels, trusted retailers, and reputable marketplaces while avoiding counterfeits, collectors can build impressive collections that bring both joy and potential investment returns.
The key to successful Labubu collecting lies in understanding the market, building relationships within the community, and staying informed about new releases and trends. Whether you’re a casual admirer or serious collector, the world of Labubu offers endless possibilities for discovery and enjoyment.
Remember that collecting should ultimately be about passion and enjoyment rather than purely financial considerations. The community, artistry, and craftsmanship behind each Labubu figure make them more than just toys – they’re pieces of contemporary art that reflect our culture’s appreciation for creativity and imagination.
As the collectible toy market continues to evolve, Labubu’s position as a premium designer toy seems secure, backed by strong community support, consistent quality, and ongoing innovation from Pop Mart and Kasing Lung. By following the guidance in this comprehensive shopping guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the exciting world of Labubu collecting and build a collection that brings you years of satisfaction.
Happy collecting, and may your next blind box reveal the exact Labubu you’ve been searching for!