McDonald's Japan ends Pokemon card Happy Meal promotion

McDonald’s Japan canceled a Happy Set promotion tied to Pokemon cards after crowds, waste and resale concerns.

McDonald's Japan ends Pokemon card Happy Meal promotion

Tokyo, AP reports that McDonald’s Japan canceled the Happy Set promotion that included Pokemon cards after resellers rushed to buy meals and some customers discarded food. The meals sold out in a day and featured a small toy and a card intended for children.

The company apologized, saying that abandoning and discarding food goes against its philosophy of offering a fun dining experience for families. It outlined measures to prevent a repeat, such as limiting purchases and ending online orders, and it said it may deny service to customers who break the rules. The company pledged to refocus on the core idea behind the Happy Set, bringing smiles to families and supporting the wholesome development of children.

The promotion shows how marketing tied to collectibles can chase hype rather than value. When demand is fueled by collectors, waste and clutter follow, challenging a brand to stay true to its family friendly image. This incident could push tighter safeguards for children focused promotions and push brands to find engaging formats that do not create litter or supply chain waste.

Looking ahead, expect marketing teams to weigh the thrill of rarity against social responsibility. If rules are clearer and outcomes are predictable, promotions can still spark interest without compromising sustainability or trust.

Highlights

Playful marketing carries responsibility for communities and the planet.