### Creative Approach to Tackle Scalpers: The Pokémon Quiz at BicCamera
In a clever effort to reduce scalping in the collectible Pokémon card market, a Pokémon store in Japan, BicCamera, has introduced an original solution: mandating customers to complete a quiz before making a purchase. This initiative seeks to guarantee that true fans have improved access to much-desired products, particularly the newest trading card game cards.
Situated in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, the store is recognized for its wide array of offerings, including cameras, electronic gadgets, and toys, with Pokémon cards being a primary draw. The quiz consists of 15 questions aimed at assessing customers’ knowledge about the Pokémon world. Reports from social media, especially a post by Ryo Saeba, suggest that scalpers are finding it difficult to succeed on the quiz, enabling authentic fans to acquire cards without disruptions from resellers.
This new policy aligns with the launch of the popular Japanese Mega Evolution set, Ninja Spinner, which highlights the highly desired Mega Greninja ex card. Due to its high demand, BicCamera has restricted each customer to one 30-pack box, emphasizing the scarcity of Pokémon products available in the market.
In addition to the quiz, BicCamera has established strict regulations to further discourage scalping. Once a customer correctly answers the quiz, the store will cut the plastic wrapping on the booster box, reducing its appeal for resale. Moreover, any attempts to photograph the quiz question sheet will lead to an immediate suspension of Pokémon card sales at the store.
The initiative has ignited conversations within the Pokémon community regarding the difficulties of obtaining products due to scalping. While it is uncertain whether a perfect score on the quiz is necessary, the overarching goal is to ensure that customers truly value the cards they are buying.
As the demand for Pokémon products continues to rise, so does the need for effective strategies to fight scalping. Fans and collectors are hopeful that the Pokémon Company will respond to the persistent production shortages to satisfy the enthusiastic community’s demand.
