Labubu Craze Hits Berlin with Two New Stores Opening Soon
A new trend hailing from Asia is making waves in Germany, specifically in Berlin, where the popularity of Labubu figures is set to take off. The first Pop-Mart store in the country will open its doors at the Alexa shopping center on August 25, attracting fans eager to get their hands on these unique collectibles.
Labubus are small, fuzzy figures characterized by their rabbit ears, sharp teeth, and mischievous grins. Despite their playful appearance, these toys are primarily marketed towards an adult demographic, especially women, rather than children. According to industry experts, Labubus are considered fashion accessories or statements rather than mere toys.
As the opening day approaches, excitement is building among fans. The Alexa shopping center has prepared for significant crowds, with special access arrangements for the day of the launch. The center has announced that entry will be permitted only through the designated entrance on Alexanderstraße, ensuring a smooth flow of visitors.
One of the highlights of purchasing Labubus is the experience of unboxing the figures, which are often sold in 'Blind Boxes.' This means buyers will not know which specific figure they are acquiring until they open the package, adding an element of surprise to the shopping experience. This aspect is particularly appealing to collectors, who often enjoy the thrill of discovery.
Pop Mart, the company behind Labubu, has established itself as a major player in the collectible toy market with over 500 stores across more than 30 countries. In Asia, their stores are known for being popular photo spots where fans can capture their experiences with the vibrant figures for social media sharing. Analysts predict that a similar phenomenon could occur in Berlin, especially among tourists seeking unique souvenirs.
In addition to the Alexa location, a second Pop-Mart store is expected to open at the Europa-Center, with plans for a launch in early October. This expansion reflects Pop Mart's strategy to capitalize on the growing interest in collectible toys and the Labubu phenomenon in particular.
However, potential buyers are advised to be cautious when shopping online, as the popularity of Labubus has led to the emergence of counterfeit websites. These fraudulent sites often offer significant discounts and appear professional but may not deliver genuine products. The only official online store for Pop Mart products is accessible at popmart.com.
Labubus join the ranks of other successful collectible trends, reminiscent of past phenomena like Monchichi and Tamagotchi, as well as more recent favorites like Squishmallows and Sonny Angel. For those interested in working with Pop Mart, the company is reportedly offering employees exclusive collectible figures each month as part of their employment benefits.