Pop Mart Opens First Canadian Store — Labubu Arrives in BC
Pop Mart, the global art toy phenomenon, has officially opened its first Canadian store, marking a significant milestone both for the brand and for its growing fanbase in North America. The grand opening took place in British Columbia, bringing with it Labubu the much-anticipated arrival of Labubu, one of the most beloved and iconic characters from Pop Mart’s lineup. For Canadian collectors, casual shoppers, and those new to the world of designer toys, this opening signals more than just another retail space — it represents the arrival of an entire culture.
The Rise of Pop Mart on the Global Stage
Pop Mart began as a small company in Beijing in 2010 and has since grown into an international powerhouse in the designer toy industry. Known for its blind box collectibles and collaborations with renowned artists, Pop Mart has managed to blend pop culture, art, and consumer trends into a phenomenon that appeals across generations. In Asia, stores often see lines of fans waiting hours to purchase the latest releases, with rare figures reselling online for significant premiums.
Its global expansion has been equally remarkable. Pop Mart has opened stores in the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Australia, each greeted with enthusiasm from fans eager to join the movement. Now, with Canada joining the list, the brand continues to prove that its reach is borderless and that the culture of collectible art toys is stronger than ever.
Why Canada and Why British Columbia?
Choosing Canada as the next step in Pop Mart’s international expansion reflects the growing demand for designer toys in North America. Within Canada, British Columbia makes perfect sense as the debut location. Vancouver, known for its thriving creative culture, multicultural communities, and youthful energy, offers fertile ground for the Pop Mart ethos. The city has long been a hub for art, fashion, gaming, and collectibles, making it the ideal launchpad for a brand that merges all these worlds into one.
British Columbia also shares a close connection to Asia through its diverse population and vibrant international communities. Pop Mart, which thrives on cultural exchange and global artistic inspiration, fits seamlessly into this landscape. By choosing BC, the brand not only taps into an eager collector base but also positions itself as part of the cultural fabric of a city that celebrates creativity.
The Arrival of Labubu
No Pop Mart launch would be complete without highlighting its most famous character: Labubu. Created by the artist Kasing Lung, Labubu has become an icon within Pop Mart’s lineup of designer figures. Recognizable for its mischievous grin, pointy ears, and playful expressions, Labubu embodies the whimsical charm that sets Pop Mart apart from mass-market toys.
Fans in Canada had long admired Labubu from afar, often resorting to online orders, resellers, or overseas trips to acquire their favorite figures. With the opening of the BC store, Labubu has finally “arrived” in person, bringing with it not only the character itself but also the excitement of exclusive collections, in-store displays, and the possibility of future collaborations.
The arrival of Labubu symbolizes more than just the sale of toys — it signifies Pop Mart’s commitment to introducing Canadians to the artistry behind its creations. Each Labubu figure tells a story, blending imaginative design with craftsmanship, and the character’s presence at the new store transforms the space into more than a shop; it becomes a gallery of modern pop art.
The Experience of a Pop Mart Store
Walking into a Pop Mart store is unlike visiting any ordinary retail shop. The space is designed to immerse visitors in a world of art toys, with brightly lit displays, walls filled with character series, and an atmosphere that blends creativity with curiosity. The BC location brings this experience to life for the first time on Canadian soil.
One of the highlights of the store is its blind box section. Blind boxes are sealed packages containing a random figure from a series, adding an element of surprise and excitement to each purchase. This concept has been central to Pop Mart’s success, creating a sense of thrill and community as fans trade figures to complete their collections. The BC store allows Canadians to finally join this global ritual in person.
Beyond shopping, Pop Mart stores often serve as gathering spots for fans, collectors, and artists. Events, launches, and artist collaborations frequently take place, and the BC store is expected to follow suit. This means fans in Canada may soon have the chance to meet artists, participate in exclusive events, and celebrate the culture together in ways that were previously inaccessible.
A New Chapter for Canadian Collectors
For Canadian collectors, the arrival of Pop Mart is a dream come true. Until now, building a collection often meant relying on international shipping, long waits, and high costs. The new store eliminates these barriers, making it easier to explore new collections and access limited editions. More importantly, it allows collectors to experience the tactile joy of browsing, unboxing, and connecting with the community in person.
The store also introduces the brand to those who may not yet be familiar with Pop Mart. For parents looking for unique gifts, for art lovers searching for modern collectible pieces, and for casual shoppers curious about the buzz, the BC location provides a chance to step into the world of designer toys and discover its appeal firsthand.
The Future of Pop Mart in Canada
The opening of Pop Mart in British Columbia is unlikely to be the brand’s only venture into Canada. If the enthusiasm and success mirror what has been seen in other countries, expansion into additional cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary may follow. These urban centers, with their vibrant creative communities, are natural fits for the brand’s ethos and would help cement Pop Mart as a household name across Canada.
Moreover, the Canadian launch is part of Pop Labubu Doll Mart’s broader strategy to establish itself as not just a retail brand but a cultural movement. Through collaborations with local artists, limited edition releases tailored to Canadian fans, and possible partnerships with Canadian cultural institutions, the brand has the opportunity to grow beyond its store walls and into the fabric of Canadian art and design.
Conclusion: A Cultural Milestone
The opening of Pop Mart’s first Canadian store in British Columbia marks more than just a business expansion. It is a cultural milestone that brings one of the world’s most exciting and innovative toy brands to a new audience. With Labubu leading the way, Canadian fans now have a chance to be part of a global community that celebrates creativity, imagination, and the joy of collecting.
As the store welcomes its first visitors, it sets the stage for a future where art toys become part of everyday culture in Canada. Whether you are a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, the arrival of Pop Mart in BC is an invitation to step into a world where art and play coexist — and where every unboxing is the beginning of a story.