PS5 Reportedly Uses Stickers To Deter Scalpers In Japan
Sony is reportedly employing holographic stickers in Japan in its latest attempt to deter PS5 scalpers. Scalpers have been a major problem for both Sony and Microsoft since the launch of current-gen consoles, as shameless re-sellers mark up prices for those anxious to obtain a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S. Chip shortages and supply chain issues have made it notoriously difficult for many to purchase a current-gen console, and scalpers have taken advantage of the demand, buying up thousands of units before selling back to consumers at excessive markups. It was even reported that PS5 and Xbox Series X scalpers made almost $60 million within months of the consoles’ 2020 launch.
Most scalpers utilize bots to claim retail stock, purchasing thousands of units while consumers struggle to pick up one. Many retailers find it difficult to obtain enough stock to quell the demand, something scalpers abuse to resell the consoles. Despite current-gen consoles being available for over a year now, scalpers are still prevalent in the industry. Within just 24 hours of Microsoft opening pre-orders for its special Halo Infinite Xbox Series X console, scalpers resold them for over $1,000 each.
According to a Yahoo! Japan story (via PlayStation LifeStyle), Sony is reportedly using stickers to deter PS5 scalpers in Japan. The report claimed that Sony is placing holographic seals on all brand-new PS5 consoles, which retailers are then asked to break in front of customers. The strategy is intended to prevent scalpers from being able to sell new items since potential buyers would notice the broken seal. The special holographic seal is being placed on all boxes before being shipped to retailers and the stickers are difficult to cut off without damaging the box. Theoretically, it should be close to impossible for a PS5 scalper to forcefully remove the sticker without ruining the sealed box, so they cannot re-sell the console as a brand-new item.
To make matters worse for the consumer, PS5 scalpers charge outrageous prices, with some marking up the original $499.99 USD price to over $1,400. While cheaper listings exist, they rarely drop below $850, a near-50 percent markup. That kind of system is bad for both the consumer and Sony, especially since PS5 stock maintains frustratingly low levels. The new holographic sticker, while a basic strategy, will likely deter scalpers from obtaining additional consoles from retailers, hopefully curbing some of the illegal activity. The end goal is to stop scalpers altogether, though that will likely take global initiatives. While Sony has responded in ways it can, the solution may rest on a governmental level.
Fortunately, anti-scalper petitions have already received responses from governments, with some legislation popping up aimed at quelling scalpers. In 2021, the U.K. passed legislation that prevents scalpers from using bots to purchase concert tickets, though that law excludes gaming consoles and graphic cards. The move forward seems obvious, though laws often take a long time to pass. As PS5 scalpers continue to fuel console shortages, it's likely a boiling point is near. Hopefully, Sony’s initiative works and eventually expands to more countries, making PS5s easier to obtain for all.
Source: Yahoo! Japan (via PlayStation LifeStyle)
Source: Screenrant
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