The Entertainer is set to roll out Pop Mart ROBO SHOPS to 12 more stores across the UK, as demand for collectible toys continues to surge.

The expansion follows the launch of the toy retailer’s first ROBO SHOP at its Bluewater flagship last year and will cement The Entertainer’s position as Pop Mart’s largest UK retail partner.

The interactive vending machine concept allows shoppers to browse and buy limited-edition Pop Mart collectibles, including sought-after characters such as Labubu, Molly, Hirono and SKULLPANDA.

Pop Mart has built a fast-growing global following since launching in 2010, blending art, fashion and pop culture through its collectible toy ranges.

Its blind box format, where each box contains a surprise figure, has helped drive excitement among fans and fuelled wider demand, with the brand also attracting celebrity attention from the likes of Dua Lipa and Rihanna.

Andrew Murphy OBE, group chief executive of The Entertainer Group, said: “As the global Pop Mart phenomenon and collectible toy trend continues to flourish, we’re excited to announce that 12 more of our stores will be home to ROBO SHOPS.

“The Entertainer takes its role as Britain’s toy shop seriously, which means breaking new ground to bring our customers all the latest toy trends, the world’s best-loved brands and compelling shopping experiences for customers, whatever their age.”

The latest rollout will take place over the next six weeks, with new ROBO SHOPS opening at The Entertainer stores in Lakeside, Brighton, Newcastle Metro, Glasgow St Enoch, Sheffield Meadowhall, Bristol Cribbs, Manchester Arndale, Belfast, Cambridge, Leeds, Merry Hill and Cardiff.

Bluewater, where the first ROBO SHOP launched, will continue to operate as an existing site.

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