Pop Mart halts Labubu sales after violent customer fights

In the United Kingdom, Pop Mart, a toy company known for its popular Labubu plush toys, has recently suspended all in-store sales due to alarming scenes of chaos and violence brought about by high demand. Reports indicate that the customer frenzy escalated with long queues forming outside their stores, culminating in fights breaking out among eager fans attempting to purchase the coveted toys. Video footage from various stores, including a notable incident in London, made the rounds on TikTok, depicting troubling situations where customers were shouting and even physically confronting one another over the merchandise. The collectible Labubu toys, which are palm-sized and feature a quirky design created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, gained significant popularity following a trend on social media platforms, especially TikTok. This led to growing visibility and demand, further amplified by endorsements from celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa. In response to the overwhelming interest, Pop Mart previously allowed customers to queue for the limited stock, which unfortunately resulted in a chaotic and often dangerous shopping atmosphere. In light of these incidents, Pop Mart has decided to pause sales until June, indicating a desire to devise a better, more equitable system for distributing the toys on their return. This decision aims to not only prioritize the safety of customers but also to manage the brand's reputation and the experience customers have when shopping for their favorite items. Victoria Calvert, an eyewitness to the mayhem at a Pop Mart location, described the negativity and fear that pervaded the atmosphere, emphasizing the distressing experiences of fans caught in the turmoil. The company stated that they are actively working on a structured release mechanism intended to alleviate these issues in the future. Moreover, the hype surrounding Labubu, which reportedly generated significant revenue for Pop Mart last year, has made the toys too popular to sell in conventional means. As a result, the scenario surrounding Labubu may reflect broader trends in consumer behavior where scarcity, driven by social media trends, elevates demand beyond traditional retail practices.