Plano entrepreneur Mario Rodriguez saw an opportunity in the recent rise of Pokémon card values and turned his hobby into a new venture. On Oct. 10, 2026, he founded Quie Collectibles, an online store that curates trading cards from Japan, China, Korea and the United States, along with comics, collectibles and handcrafted accessories.
From Personal Binder to Public Marketplace
Rodriguez’s project began as a personal “Pokédex Binder,” a quest to collect a full‑art card of every Pokémon. As English‑language cards grew more expensive, he started exploring international releases, discovering lower‑priced options and unique packaging that sparked his curiosity. “The more I collected and explored, the more I wanted to share those discoveries with other people,” he told Local Profile.
That curiosity evolved into Quie Collectibles, whose tagline, “Collecting speaks every language,” reflects the belief that Pokémon fandom transcends borders. “You can love Pokémon without limiting your collection to one language,” Rodriguez said.
Building a Business Around a Passion
Quie Collectibles operates solely online, but Rodriguez aims to connect with fellow collectors throughout Plano and the broader Dallas‑Fort Worth region. Launching the shop introduced him to new challenges beyond collecting, including product photography, packaging, shipping logistics, bookkeeping and brand awareness.
“Even though Quie operates online, I want people to know there’s a real person and fellow collector behind it,” he explained. In addition to cards, Rodriguez crafts handmade magnets and keychains using Pokémon artwork, carefully trimming designs before assembling each accessory.
Community Focus and Holiday Advice
Rodriguez uses social media to document pack openings, compare international releases and share updates on his own collection, fostering a sense of community among local fans. With the holiday season approaching, he advises shoppers to focus on what Pokémon enthusiasts truly enjoy rather than chasing the most expensive products.
“You don’t have to chase the most expensive product to give a thoughtful gift,” he said. “Something connected to their favorite Pokémon, or useful supplies to protect their collection, can mean just as much.”
Local Impact
Quie Collectibles adds a niche offering to Plano’s growing entrepreneurial landscape, supporting the city’s reputation as a hub for innovative small businesses. By highlighting international card releases, Rodriguez also introduces local collectors to broader cultural perspectives, aligning with Plano’s diverse and forward‑looking community.
As the market for collectible cards continues to evolve, Rodriguez remains committed to sharing his discoveries, helping fellow fans build their own collections, and reinforcing the idea that a hobby can become a thriving, locally rooted enterprise.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
