This late 90’s craze is fueling big box retailers

Core Insights - Trading cards are experiencing a significant resurgence, appealing to both children and adults, with major retailers anticipating them to be a top gift category this holiday season [1][3] - Sales of trading cards have surged, with overall sales up 70% this year and projected revenue exceeding $1 billion [1] - The trading card market is being driven by Millennials and Gen Z, who are drawn to nostalgia and view some cards as alternative investments [2] Industry Trends - Strategic card sales, particularly for Pokémon and collectible games, have increased over 100% through August, while sports and pop culture cards have risen nearly 50% [2] - Walmart Marketplace reported a remarkable 200% increase in trading card sales compared to last year, with Pokémon cards alone seeing a tenfold increase [2] - Retailers are betting on trading cards becoming a holiday essential for consumers of all ages [3]