Labubu dolls arrive in San Francisco's Union Square | KTVU

The opening of a new PopMart store in San Francisco's Union Square generated significant excitement, with a line of customers stretching down the block for the viral Abubu dolls. This event highlights a growing trend of "experiences" driving consumer interest, rather than just traditional retail.

The popularity of these dolls, likened to "Barbie for adults," underscores a desire for collectibility and personalization, with some customers even creating custom outfits for their plush toys. The success of the PopMart store, alongside the popular Nintendo store, suggests a potential revitalization for Union Square, a district that has seen major department store closures.

• The viral Abubu dolls are now available at the new PopMart store in San Francisco's Union Square.
• The grand opening saw a line of customers down the block, eager to purchase the popular plush toys.
• Customers describe the appeal as similar to "Barbie for adults," with an interest in dressing up the dolls and collecting rare editions.
• One customer reported a $1,000 budget from their father to purchase dolls.
• The success of the PopMart and the Nintendo store suggests that "experiences" are driving successful businesses, potentially aiding in the revitalization of Union Square.

PopMart Store Grand Opening and Abubu Doll Craze [00:00]

• The viral Abubu dolls have officially arrived in San Francisco's Union Square with the grand opening of a new PopMart store.
• The store, located in the former Skechers spot on Powell, experienced a line of customers extending down the block.
• The event was likened to a "specific Black Friday" by one customer, driven by the hunt for rare editions of the popular plush toys.

This opening signifies a significant event in Union Square, drawing a large crowd eager for the sought-after Abubu dolls, reflecting a strong demand for these collectibles.

The viral Abubu dolls are officially in San Francisco's Union Square at the new PopMart store.

The Appeal of Abubu Dolls and Personalization [00:39]

• The appeal of Abubu dolls is compared to "Barbie for adults," with an emphasis on dressing them up and personalizing them.
• One customer shared that they make costumes, such as tails, for their dolls.
• The desire to match the dolls' outfits with their own attire was also mentioned.
• Customers expressed excitement about acquiring dolls, including a "big one," anticipating they will fill a lot of space.

The attraction to these dolls extends beyond simple possession, highlighting a creative outlet for owners who enjoy customizing and styling their plush companions.

The appeal of it is kind of like Barbie for adults, right? Like get to get to dress them up.

Customer Purchasing Habits and Perceptions [01:12]

• One customer, Roth Lee, acquired numerous dolls and mentioned his dad provided a $1,000 budget for his shopping trip.
• There's a perception by some that the dolls are "creepy," but others disagree, finding them not "too creepy."

This section touches upon the financial aspect of the collecting hobby and addresses differing opinions on the dolls' aesthetic.

Union Square's Revitalization and Experiential Retail [01:31]

• The large crowds and busy atmosphere are seen as signs of a vibrant Union Square returning.
• This comes after the closures of major department stores like Saks, Bloomingdale's, and Nordstrom, with Macy's also announcing its expected closure.
• The area is noted to be entering a "new phase."
• The Nintendo store, located nearby, is also highlighted as being very popular.
• It's suggested that successful businesses are those offering "experiences" rather than just traditional retail.

The presence of popular attractions like the PopMart and Nintendo stores offers a glimmer of hope for the revival of Union Square, indicating a shift towards businesses that provide engaging experiences for consumers.

The Nintendo store just down the street is also really popular, showing that the businesses that are doing well aren't just stores, but experiences.

Hopes for San Francisco's Future [01:58]

• There's a sentiment that revitalizing San Francisco is important.
• The success of events like the PopMart opening is viewed as a potential catalyst for this revitalization.

This closing thought expresses optimism for San Francisco's future, with events like this offering a positive outlook for the city's economic and cultural landscape.

I think it's really important to revitalize San Francisco. Maybe this is one of those things that will help.