Pokémon Center Singapore prepares major revamp with locally inspired store concept

Pokémon Singapore plans to temporarily close Pokémon Center SINGAPORE at Jewel Changi Airport from 1 April 2026 as part of a major store renewal that will introduce a fully localised retail concept. The company said the refreshed store will reopen in the third quarter of 2026 with new design elements and merchandise offerings intended to reflect Singapore’s cultural identity.

The move marks the first major revamp of a Pokémon Center outside Japan, signalling a deeper localisation strategy for one of the brand’s most recognisable retail formats. The current store has operated since 2019 and has become a notable attraction at Jewel Changi Airport for both residents and visitors.

A retail concept shaped around local culture

Pokémon Singapore said the renewed store will feature installations inspired by Singapore’s heritage alongside interior design elements drawn from everyday local culture. The concept aims to evolve the shopping experience beyond a conventional merchandise outlet and position the location as a themed destination tailored to Singapore.

The company also plans to expand the range of products available at the store. Pokémon Singapore said the refreshed location will introduce additional merchandise and shopping experiences specific to Singapore, although details of the product lineup were not disclosed.

A new symbolic Pokémon will also be introduced as part of the revamp. According to Pokémon Singapore, the character will represent the “unique charm of Singapore” and serve as a visual centrepiece of the updated store concept.

Pop up stores to maintain retail presence

During the renovation period, Pokémon Singapore will continue operating temporary pop up stores to maintain its retail presence in the city. The pop ups will operate for three months at Jewel Changi Airport and Plaza Singapura.

The temporary locations will offer a curated selection of official Pokémon merchandise. These include familiar product categories typically associated with Pokémon Center stores, such as video games, Pokémon Trading Card Game items, plush toys and accessories.

Pokémon Singapore said the pop ups are intended to keep fans connected to the brand while preparations for the permanent store reopening continue.

Pokémon Center Singapore’s role in local fan culture

Since opening in 2019, Pokémon Center SINGAPORE has positioned itself as a focal point for the franchise’s community in the country. Located within Jewel Changi Airport, the store attracts both local fans and international visitors seeking official merchandise.

Pokémon Singapore said the store has grown into a hub for fans over the past seven years, contributing to the city’s broader pop culture landscape. The upcoming revamp reflects the company’s intention to deepen that presence through a store concept tailored more directly to Singapore’s identity.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from our fans in Singapore. Over the past seven years, we have witnessed Pokémon become an increasingly meaningful part of everyday life, and we are proud to have been part of that journey,” said Shunsuke Sasaki, Managing Director of Pokémon Singapore.

“This renewal marks an important milestone as we further elevate the brand experience at the Pokémon Center at Jewel Changi Airport. The refreshed store will feature thoughtfully curated products, including some limited edition merchandise, and an enhanced interior design concept, created to delight both our long-time fans and first-time visitors alike. We look forward to welcoming everyone soon.”

Pokémon Singapore confirmed that Pokémon Center SINGAPORE is scheduled to reopen in the third quarter of 2026 following completion of the renewal.