Chinese pop culture brand POP MART has chosen London as its European headquarters. The company plans new stores across the UK, creating jobs and bringing popular IP characters like Labubu and Molly to European fans.
Walking into a POP MART store on Oxford Street soon, visitors will be greeted by colourful displays of collectables and familiar characters such as Labubu, Molly, and Dimoo. Known for its blind boxes and interactive experiences, the Chinese pop culture brand is bringing its mix of art, design and entertainment to the UK.
On January 30th, POP MART founder and CEO Wang Ning joined other Chinese entrepreneurs at a closed-door CEO roundtable with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the China-UK Business Forum. At the meeting, the company announced that London would serve as its European headquarters. POP MART plans to open seven new stores across the UK, including flagship locations on Oxford Street and in Birmingham and Cardiff, and around 20 additional stores across Europe. The expansion is expected to create more than 150 jobs.
POP MART currently sells its products in more than 80 countries and regions worldwide. Its overseas business spans several partnership models, including retail distribution, brand licensing, vending machine operations and cross-industry collaborations.
The company’s IP characters have gained international recognition, with Labubu emerging as one of its most successful creations. While rapid popularity has brought fluctuations in the secondary market, POP MART has continued to focus on long-term IP development and sustainable operations.
In 2024, Labubu generated more than 3 billion yuan in sales, reflecting the company’s broader strategy of building cultural value beyond short-term commercial returns.
Additional reporting by HKCNA.
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