China’s art toys and collectible toys retailer, Pop Mart, is to make its European debut with the first store in the UK.
Part of Pop Mart’s trial operation in the region, the store will open in Shaftesbury Avenue, central London, on January 20. Marking its debut, Pop Mart will introduce its latest art toy products, SkullPanda Dark Maids and Mega Collection 1000% Space Molly x Meilin Cipher.
The brand participated in MCM London and DesignerCon UK conventions last year as part of its market testing and effort to create a solid fan base before entering the country. Founded in 2010 with its first store opened in Beijing, the company has expanded into 23 countries and regions, including South Korea, Japan, the US, Canada and Singapore.
The expansion announcement comes a week after Pop Mart’s collaboration with KFC, which has been facing a boycott by a Chinese consumer rights group. The promotion, which allows customers to collect limited-edition Dimoo toy dolls, was described as ‘impulsive consumption’.
