Designer collectible toy brand Pop Mart, known for its blind‑box figures and viral characters like Labubu, is accelerating its U.S. retail push with plans to open more than 20 new locations at Simon Property Group malls and outlet centers in 2026 — including a flagship presence at the King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania.
The move reflects the company’s broader strategy to solidify its stateside footprint and capitalize on growing consumer demand.
Aggressive Retail Growth in the United States
Pop Mart, a Beijing‑based designer toy and collectibles maker, has been steadily scaling its global presence, operating hundreds of stores worldwide as part of its broader expansion plans. Its U.S. footprint has also grown rapidly: as of early 2026, Pop Mart operates dozens of retail locations across the United States, with that number set to increase significantly in the coming year.
The company’s strategy in 2026 includes opening 20+ new stores at Simon malls and outlet centers — a key retail partnership that underscores Simon’s confidence in the brand’s ability to drive foot traffic and cultural buzz. Zachary Beloff, VP and national director of business development at Simon, noted Pop Mart’s “rapid growth and cultural influence” as reasons it complements Simon’s portfolio.
The Labubu Phenomenon and Brand Momentum
Central to Pop Mart’s appeal is its original IP — particularly figures like Labubu — which tap into global hype culture and collector communities. This viral momentum has helped elevate Pop Mart from a regional toy maker into a global lifestyle brand, attracting strong demand from Generation Z and millennial shoppers.
Pop Mart’s collectible blind‑box model — where shoppers purchase sealed figures without knowing which character they’ll receive — fuels repeat visits and community engagement, often spurring long lines and rapid sell‑outs at store openings.
Simon Partnership: A Strategic Retail Play
The planned expansion with Simon Property Group signals a strategic commitment to physical retail. Simon’s outlet and mall centers provide high‑foot‑traffic platforms where Pop Mart can showcase its products and immersive retail experiences to broader audiences. This includes not just traditional storefronts but also interactive shopping environments that align with the brand’s highly social and experiential appeal.
Simon’s leadership has positioned Pop Mart as “an exciting and complementary addition” to its retail mix — recognizing both its ability to draw diverse shoppers and its role in enhancing mall ecosystems.
Why This Expansion Matters
Pop Mart’s increased store count in the U.S. reflects broader global growth and consumer appetite for collectible culture. As shoppers — especially younger consumers — seek brands that combine entertainment, storytelling, and product discovery, Pop Mart’s rollout at major retail centers positions it as both a destination brand and a growth engine for mall partners.
This strategy also aligns with Pop Mart’s international momentum: the company now operates hundreds of stores across Asia, North America, and Europe, with a strong presence in urban and high‑visibility retail corridors.
Looking Ahead
As Pop Mart expands its U.S. store network in 2026, investors and retail observers will be watching how the brand translates its global buzz into sustained domestic performance. With a loyal collector base and an increasingly visible retail footprint, Pop Mart’s partnership with Simon could help define the next phase of experiential toy retail in America.
More about Pop Mart:
Staff Report
Nathan Sellars
Staff Report
