Mystery package shop to open in Cork shopping centre for six days

You’ve likely seen videos on social media of long queues of customers waiting in line to buy unclaimed packages.

Now buyers in Cork can try their luck as a new mystery package shop will open in the city next week for a limited time.

French start-up firm King Colis had huge success before Christmas when it brought the concept to Dublin, opening in Tallaght and seeing crowds arrive to buy mystery packages.

Described as a real-life treasure hunt, lucky customers could find high-tech devices, designer clothes and shoes, watches, beauty and household appliances, collectable items, and more.

However, Echo columnist Caitríona Redmond has previously written about these types of shops and advises caution when introducing children to what she describes as a form of gambling.

Huge turnout

The new outlet will open at Douglas Court Shopping Centre on February 24, with a huge turnout expected.

“We are so excited to be bringing King Colis and its concept to Cork,” said King Colis CEO and co-founder Killian Denis. 

“It’s always exciting because you never know what you’ll get.

“Sometimes there are real treasures hidden inside the boxes. For example, in France, one customer discovered a small collectable gold bar, while in Italy someone found an ultra-rare Pokémon card valued at €3,000. Of course, luck plays a big role in what you find in your packages, but one thing is certain, the experience is unforgettable.

“I believe the turnout will be great, as it has been elsewhere, and I advise anyone thinking about it to get down early as stock is limited.”

Packages are sold by weight, and shoppers have 10 minutes to select all the packages they want, but are not allowed to open them before purchasing. The total price will be determined after weighing, and the surprises can be unboxed.

King Colis has been buying undelivered packages since 2023 to sell on its website or in pop-up stores across Europe. It says customers can help reduce waste and leave a positive environmental footprint by buying undelivered packages which previously would have been destroyed.

King Colis will be in Douglas until March 1, 10am-8pm each day. 

Entry to the shop is free, but fast passes are €15, available on https://www.king-colis.com/en.