A specialty collectibles shop in Los Angeles County is grappling with major losses after burglars stole their full inventory of popular Labubu plush dolls, which have recently dominated pop culture markets and social media feeds. The plushes—cult favorites known for their quirky, gremlin-meets-Cabbage Patch appearance—have surged in secondary market value as demand outpaces supply.
The Heist and Its Aftermath
Earlier this week, four thieves broke into One Stop Sales, a store widely recognized for its extensive Labubu selection, and made off with up to $30,000 worth of merchandise. The store’s management shared on social media that every plush doll had been taken in the swift, late night theft. According to statements from the business, local deputies quickly assisted the store, successfully recovering some of the stolen plushes. At this time, no suspects have been publicly identified.
Resale Value Skyrockets Amid Scarcity
Labubu plushes have recently achieved viral status thanks to their unique designs and social media exposure. Prices for the dolls have skyrocketed, with some selling for up to $500 each on resale marketplaces. Just last weekend, a particularly rare variant reportedly fetched $10,000 at auction. Collectors and fans attribute the demand to the nostalgic blend of classic 1980s toy aesthetics with modern meme culture, which has resonated across age groups and pop culture communities.
Social Media and Security Concerns
The shop had been actively promoting its Labubu inventory online in the days leading up to the break-in, leading many to speculate that the viral nature of the dolls may have drawn unwanted attention to the store’s inventory. Collectors and fans reacted quickly online, offering sympathies and calling for support for the impacted shop. Some suggested the event would only further intensify demand and drive prices higher, while others advocated for enhanced security and digital discretion in future promotions. The incident has also prompted renewed comparison between the Labubu craze and earlier collectible phenomena, such as Beanie Babies and Cabbage Patch Kids.
