Vending

Viral Labubu collectible dolls arrive in Miami via vending machine

Photo: Sutthisak - stock.adobe.com

May 22, 2025

A vending machine operated by Chinese retailer Pop Mart has become an attraction at Miami's Dolphin Mall, dispensing the highly sought-after Labubu dolls, according to a Miami New Times report.

Online videos show significant lines of people eager to purchase the collectibles, which are part of a growing trend among Gen Z and other collectors. This appears to be Pop Mart's first vending machine location in Florida.

Labubu dolls, known for their fuzzy, toothy, and mischievous appearance, are a key part of "The Monsters" character series created in 2015 by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic mythology. The dolls are typically sold in "blind boxes," meaning the specific character inside is a surprise.

The latest Labubu collection, released in April, retailed for $27.99 for a single box or $167.94 for a set of six, and sold out rapidly. These items are now appearing on resale sites like eBay and StockX for at least double their original price, with some rare Labubu dolls commanding prices upwards of $3,300.