Hundreds flock to Towson Town Center for Pop Mart Grand Opening

Hundreds Gather at Towson Town Center for Grand Opening of Trendy, Collectible Toy Company Pop Mart

A wave of excitement swept through Towson Town Center on May 24, 2025, as Pop Mart officially opened its doors to the Baltimore community. The grand opening drew hundreds of eager fans, from seasoned collectors to curious newcomers, all hoping to get their hands on the latest blind box collectibles and exclusive artist-designed figures. The vibrant store, located on Level 2 near Apple, quickly became a focal point of activity, with shoppers sharing their finds and experiences on TikTok and Instagram throughout the day.

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What is Pop Mart?

Pop Mart, founded in China in 2010, has rapidly grown into a global sensation by specializing in artist-driven vinyl collectibles, often sold in “blind boxes”—sealed packages that keep the specific figure a surprise until opened. This element of chance, combined with collaborations with renowned artists, has produced beloved characters like Labubu, SKULLPANDA, MOLLY, DIMOO, and Pucky. The thrill of the hunt and the joy of unboxing have made Pop Mart’s toys highly addictive for collectors, fueling long lines and a thriving resale market for rare figures.

What is the craze?

The craze over Pop Mart toys is not just a local phenomenon. Globally, the brand has sparked headlines and even chaos, such as the recent temporary withdrawal of Labubu dolls from UK stores after fights broke out among customers vying for the plushies. The unpredictability of the blind box format, coupled with limited-edition releases, has led to a booming secondary market where rare figures can sell for hundreds of dollars. Celebrities like Rihanna and K-pop star Lisa have further amplified the trend by showcasing their collections, turning these toys into status symbols and fashion accessories.

Japanese and Asian-inspired stores trending in Towson

Pop Mart’s expansion into Towson is part of a larger trend of Japanese and Asian-inspired stores opening in and around the area. In recent years, Towson has seen a surge in Asian retailers, from specialty snack shops to lifestyle brands and pop culture stores. This reflects a growing interest in Asian aesthetics, collectibles, and design, particularly among Gen Z and Millennial shoppers drawn to kawaii culture and the excitement of collecting. The arrival of Pop Mart follows the success of similar concepts and adds a fresh, international dimension to Towson’s diverse shopping scene.

The grand opening event itself was a testament to Pop Mart’s appeal. Shoppers flocked to the new location, eager to explore the immersive retail space and discover figures from celebrated artists around the world. Many shared their unboxing experiences online, adding to the social media buzz and cementing Pop Mart’s status as a pop culture destination in Towson.

With additional Pop Mart stores opening soon in nearby malls like Columbia and Christiana, Towson’s new location positions itself at the heart of a rising trend. For local residents and visitors alike, Pop Mart brings not just collectible toys, but a sense of community, creativity, and global connection—making Towson Town Center an even more exciting place to shop, explore, and be inspired.

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