The Target x Pokémon collection could sell out fast – here’s what to know and beat the rush

The new Target x Pokémon event feels like just that, a shopping event that I can’t keep my eyes off, whether it's picking up a branded bag for my niece who’s obsessed or toying with a way-too-colourful keyboard all of my own, there’s a little something for everyone here, if you love Pokémon.

And it's genuinely limited too, with these designs only available at Target, starting 3 May. There's a second merch drop on 6 June, and in-store buys can start earlier, on 2 May. So, while you can't buy now, it's a good idea to get ahead of the event and see what's on offer.

Pulling together a big, nostalgia-heavy collection that’s clearly aiming to catch both longtime fans and newer ones in the same net, Target has been savvy in its choice of collectables, timed to celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary. Everything from clothes and accessories to home bits and bobs, all stamped with familiar faces like Pikachu and friends.

What makes this one feel like a great event is the pricing – nothing’s too costly – and the limited nature of the drop – it really is only here for a few days – because while plenty of items sit in impulse-buy territory, the real hook is knowing it probably won’t hang around for long, which turns a casual browse into a bit of a now-or-never moment. So, with that in mind, and considering you can't buy now, these are my picks of the Target x Pokémon merch you can earmark for the event and maybe beat the pack.