Mystery lost package shop coming to Cork next week — here’s what you need to know

They are expecting a huge turnout in Cork

Customers rummaging at a King Colis pop-up

You’ve likely seen videos on social media of long queues of customers waiting in line to buy unclaimed packages. Now, Corkonians 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, some lucky Cork customers could find high-tech devices, designer clothes and shoes, watches, beauty and household appliances, collectable items and more. However, Irish Examiner 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.

A King Colis customer with their opened package

They will open a new store at Douglas Court Shopping Centre on Tuesday, February 24 and they are expecting a huge turnout — and maybe some success stories from Rebel County customers.

“We are so excited to be bringing King Colis and its concept to Cork. It’s always exciting because you never know what you’ll get. Sometimes there are real treasures hidden inside the boxes,” says CEO and co-founder of King Colis, Killian Denis.

“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.” 

Package prices are determined by weight

Packages are sold by weight, and shoppers will have 10 minutes to select all the packages they want, but they are not allowed to open them before purchasing. The total price will be determined after the 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. They say customers can help reduce waste and leave a positive environmental footprint by buying packages, as previously undelivered packages would have been destroyed.

King Colis will be in Douglas until Sunday, March 1, from 10am to 8pm each day. Entry to the shop is free but fast passes are available for €15 on king-colis.com.