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Pop Mart vending machine replaces cupcake ATM at USC
September 9, 2026
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ClaudePop Mart has opened what the company describes as its first college-campus vending location outside the University of Southern California Bookstore, according to a USC Annenberg Media report. The automated "Robo Shop," which began operating Sept. 3, sells designer toys and collectible figures priced from $16.99 to $36.99.
The machine replaces a Sprinkles Cupcakes ATM that opened in 2016 but stopped operating after the bakery chain closed its remaining stores in December 2025. Pop Mart, a Chinese retailer known for collectible characters such as the popular Labubu monsters, operates more than 500 stores in over 30 countries.
Pop Mart has more than 60 stores and vending locations in California, including over 30 in the Los Angeles area. USC students interviewed by Annenberg Media said the new machine reflects the popularity of Pop Mart products among Generation Z consumers. One student said she was eager to return after noticing several unfamiliar figures in the machine.
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