Introduction to Labubu
Elmo, meet Labubu. The insanely popular Chinese “monster” doll — a favorite of Blackpink singer Lisa, Kim Kardashian, and Rihanna — is coming to Times Square, Realty Check has learned. Labubu owner Pop Mart just signed a lease for a 7,000 square-foot store at 1540 Broadway in the heart of the “Bowtie.”
The New Store
The 10-year lease will bring Pop Mart’s US flagship store to the tower’s southern corner at West 44th Street in the second half of 2026. The building’s near-200,000 square-foot retail podium, owned by Vornado Realty Trust, is also home to the Disney Store, Forever 21, and US Polo Association.
Pop Mart’s Success
Labubu maker Pop Mart’s sales have surged 213% this year over 2024. AFP via Getty Images
Terms and other details of the Pop Mart deal weren’t available as Vornado and the retailer put a tight clamp on news coverage.
Impact on Times Square
The deal is a big plus for Times Square’s retail picture. More stores stand vacant than in the recent past or have been taken over by touristy T-shirt dealers and fast-food outlets. It’s also good news for Vornado, which had its outlook raised from stable to positive by Fitch Ratings this month after the REIT announced plans to buy and revive the mostly vacant 623 Fifth Ave. office tower.
The Labubu Phenomenon
Labubu plush toys are both scary and cute, with sharp teeth, large ears, and lots of fuzz. They’re so popular that Pop Mart’s sales surged 213% this year over 2024, making the company more valuable than Barbie maker Mattel.
Pop Mart signed a 10-year lease to bring its US flagship store to 1540 Broadway in the second half of 2026. Google Maps
Products and Sales
Pop Mart has released more than 300 Labubu dolls, priced from $15 for a three-inch vinyl figure to $960 for a jumbo, 31-inch high “mega” edition. Part of their mystique is that they’re sold in “blind boxes” so that customers don’t know what colors they’re buying.
Counterfeits and Safety Concerns
Labubus are in such demand that fakes known as “Lafufus” have flooded the border. A half-million dollars worth of fakes were recently seized by US Customs and Border Protection officers at Seattle’s main airport. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recently warned that some of the bogus products are so small that they can pose dangers to children, who might choke if they put them in their mouths.
Conclusion
The introduction of Labubu to Times Square is expected to bring a new level of excitement to the area, with fans of the doll finally having a dedicated store to purchase their favorite products. With the surge in popularity of Labubu, it will be interesting to see how the brand continues to grow and expand its reach in the US market.
FAQs
Q: What is Labubu?
A: Labubu is a popular Chinese “monster” doll that has gained a significant following worldwide, including fans like Blackpink singer Lisa, Kim Kardashian, and Rihanna.
Q: Where will the new Labubu store be located?
A: The new Labubu store will be located at 1540 Broadway in Times Square, New York City.
Q: When is the store expected to open?
A: The store is expected to open in the second half of 2026.
Q: How many Labubu dolls have been released?
A: Pop Mart has released over 300 Labubu dolls, ranging in price from $15 to $960.
Q: What is the concern with counterfeit Labubu products?
A: Counterfeit Labubu products, known as “Lafufus,” have flooded the market and pose a danger to children due to their small size, which can cause choking hazards.
