UK Labubu Shops to Open Following PM's China Visit

Following the UK Prime Minister's recent trip to China, seven new shops selling Labubu dolls are set to open in the United Kingdom this year. Pop Mart, the Chinese toy manufacturer, has announced plans to establish a flagship store on London's Oxford Street, along with additional outlets in Cardiff and Birmingham.

This expansion is part of a larger initiative, with Pop Mart aiming to open 20 more shops across Europe in 2026. The announcement comes as part of a series of trade deals between the UK and China, which the government claims are worth £2.2 billion in export agreements.

Labubu dolls, known for their distinctive spiky-toothed grins, have gained immense popularity globally. Celebrities such as Rihanna and Kim Kardashian have been spotted with these quirky toys. While some find them adorable, others view them as peculiar. Regardless, their success has been seen as a boost to Chinese soft power, showcasing the country's creativity and cultural appeal on an international stage.