Collectors across Britain are facing heartbreak as the wildly popular Labubu doll range has mysteriously vanished from major retailer shelves, replaced by seasonal alternatives that have left enthusiasts reeling.
Shoppers hoping to get their hands on the elusive figures have reported finding empty spaces where the collectibles once stood at Smyths Toys Superstores, with the distinctive mushroom-house displays now occupied by new seasonal characters.
The Great Labubu Disappearance
Social media has erupted with confusion and disappointment as collectors share images of the replaced displays. The distinctive mushroom-house packaging that housed the £9.99 blind box figures has been completely removed, making way for new seasonal characters that have failed to capture the same enthusiasm among the dedicated fanbase.
One disappointed shopper captured the sentiment perfectly, telling the Mirror: "I've been to three different Smyths stores hoping to complete my collection, but they've all been replaced. It's devastating for collectors who were mid-collection."
Secondary Market Prices Skyrocket
The disappearance from retail shelves has sent values soaring on secondary markets, with rare Labubu figures now commanding staggering prices online. Some of the most sought-after variants are being listed for hundreds of pounds on platforms like eBay and Vinted, putting them out of reach for casual collectors.
The situation has created a frenzy among completionists who fear they may never finish their collections at reasonable prices. "I saw the strawberry bat version going for £250 online," shared one desperate collector. "It's madness - I should have bought more when I had the chance."
What's Replacing the Beloved Figures?
While Smyths Toys has remained tight-lipped about whether the removal is permanent, the seasonal replacements haven't generated the same excitement. The new characters lack the distinctive charm that made Labubu dolls so appealing to both children and adult collectors alike.
The retail silence has only fuelled speculation within the collecting community, with theories ranging from temporary seasonal rotations to permanent discontinuation circulating online.
Advice for Determined Collectors
For those still hoping to find these elusive figures, there are still options:
- Check smaller independent toy stores that may have remaining stock
- Monitor online marketplaces for reasonable prices
- Keep checking Smyths stores in case of restocks
- Consider joining collector groups for trade opportunities
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of collectible markets and how quickly availability can change for sought-after items. For now, Labubu enthusiasts must wait and hope for the return of their favourite characters to UK shelves.
