Pokémon vending machines are popping up in malls, arcades, and card shops around the world. Whether you’re buying single cards, booster packs, or special collectibles, these machines offer a fun, fast way to get your Pokémon fix.
But there is one question many people will probably ask
Do Pokémon vending machines take cash?
Let’s talk about it in more details.
Want to start your own vending venture? Check out our step-by-step guide on How to Start a Pokémon Vending Machine Business.
Pokémon Center Vending Machines : A Quick Overview
The Pokémon Center vending machines, mostly found in Japan and some U.S. locations, are officially licensed by The Pokémon Company. This machine supplies sealed booster packs, all kinds of Pokemon Toys, and even limited-edition cards. This Pokemon center machine is a very mature vending machine, with touchscreens, fun animations, and advanced payment methods.
Payment methods usually include:
- Credit/debit cards like Nayax
- Mobile payments (like Apple Pay or Google Pay)
- Prepaid Pokémon gift cards
- Very few of them will take cash
In Japan, some Pokémon vending machines accept coins or paper yen bills. But besides Japan, the machines in other countries do not accept cash.
Types of Pokémon Vending Machines and Payment Options
Not all Pokémon vending machines are made equal. Here’s a chart to tell the difference:
If you’re planning to operate or buy a vending machine for Pokémon cards, choose the right type matters. Machines designed for digital payments are modern and convenient. But if your audience includes kids or the people who used to use cash, a machine with bill acceptor may be your best bet.
Why Don’t Most Pokémon Machines Take Cash?
Here are a few reasons:
1. Security Risks
To some extend, a machine with cash box are easier to attract theft. While digital payments are much safer.
2. Maintenance
Cash sytem (note reader, coin acceptors)will sometimes break down and need regular maintenance like cleaning and emptying.
3. Trendy Payment Behavior
In many malls and card shops, people now prefer to pay by card or phone. It is easy for them.
When Cash Still Be Preferred
Despite the rise of digital payments, there are still situations where cash-friendly Pokémon vending machines make more sense:
Kids’ Arcades
Children may have pocket money in coins and bills. A simple mechanical vending machine can be the most convenient choice for them.
Small Local Stores
Some family-owned stores don’t have POS systems but still want to run a small vending machine business.
Countries with Low Card Penetration
In some under developing regions, cash is still commonly used. In these cases, coin-accepting Pokémon vending machines thrive.
Pro Tip for Vendors: If you want both solutions, use a machine with both coins and Nayax card readers. These will help machines to be most flexible and allow maximum purchasing.
Vending Pokémon Cards: Boost Sales with Smart Payment Setup
As a vending business owner, your goal is probably to maximize daily sales. Here’s how payment methods affect your profit:
Cash-Only Machines
- Lower upfront cost
- Fewer technical issues
- But: limited buyer pool
Digital + Cash
- Slightly higher investment
- Broader buyer access
- Great for malls and tourist areas
Digital-Only (Card, QR, App)
- Sleek design
- Ideal for high-end shopping centers
- Requires constant internet connectivity
Our Pokémon vending machines can be customized with:
- Coin mechanism
- Paper bill acceptor (ICT)
- Nayax card reader (Visa/Mastercard)
- QR code scan-to-pay (WeChat Pay, QRIS, etc.)
This means you decide how your customers pay. We even offer free-spin mode for giveaways!
Conclusion: Cash or Not, Let the Sales Roll
So, do Pokémon vending machines take cash?
Some do, many don’t. But it depends on the machine type, your location, and your target audience.
If you’re targeting collectors and teens at a trendy shopping center—go digital.
If you’re placing machines in a kid-friendly space or retro arcade—add cash.
The key takeaway: Your vending machine should match your customers’ habits. Not the other way around.
FAQ
Q1: Can I get a Pokémon vending machine that accepts both cash and card?
Yes! Many vending suppliers (like Wehoo Vending) offer machines that support coins, bill acceptor, and card readers(Nayax).
Q2: Is it legal to sell Pokémon cards in vending machines?
Yes, as long as the cards are legally obtained and don’t falsely advertise. Also if you want to sell booster packs, make sure you use sealed products or clearly label mystery packs.
Q3: How do I add a coin acceptor to my Pokémon vending machine?
Coin acceptors are usually installed in the front panel and connected to the control board. If you’re unsure, ask the supplier to pre-install it.
Q4: What’s the best location for a cash-only Pokémon vending machine?
Game rooms, public parks, community centers, card stores and elementary schools tend to have more cash users.
