San Francisco’s Union Square is getting a vibrant makeover with the arrival of Pop Mart, a Chinese toy retailer that’s capturing the hearts of collectors and pop culture enthusiasts. The new store, set to open at 200 Powell Street, represents more than just another retail space, it’s a symbol of the city’s evolving retail landscape and growing connection to international trends.

The Art Deco building at the corner of O’Farrell will soon house the popular brand known for its blind box collectibles, which have created a global phenomenon among millennials and Gen Z. Since its first San Francisco location opened at Stonestown Galleria last summer, Pop Mart has generated significant buzz, with fans lining up early to snag their favorite mysterious figurines.

This isn’t just another store opening, it’s part of a broader urban revitalization effort. The location, previously occupied by Skechers, has been vacant since 2019, and Pop Mart’s arrival signals renewed energy in a corridor that has struggled with retail vacancies. The store complements other recent additions like the Nintendo store and local brands such as Nooworks.

The retailer’s success is remarkable, with global sales reaching approximately $1.8 billion in the last year, a staggering 107% increase. Their unique model of “blind box” shopping transforms purchasing into an exciting, gamified experience where collectors never know exactly which character they’ll get.

Real estate investor Ian Jacobs, who recently purchased the building, is part of a broader strategy to reinvest in San Francisco’s commercial real estate. His team has been acquiring properties in Union Square, suggesting confidence in the area’s potential recovery and transformation.

Pop Mart represents more than a retail store, it’s a cultural bridge, bringing playful Asian pop culture directly into the heart of San Francisco. For local collectors and fashion-forward individuals, this store promises to be a destination that combines retail therapy with the thrill of collectible discovery.