CHICAGO, U.S. — Trading cards are increasingly being viewed as investment assets rather than simply collectibles, creating new opportunities for packaging manufacturers, printers and converters, according to RRD’s 2026 Collectibles & Trading Cards Report.

The study found that changing consumer behavior is driving demand for premium packaging, higher-quality materials and sustainable solutions as collectors place greater emphasis on product presentation and long-term value.

Collectibles Become Financial Assets

According to the report, trading cards have evolved beyond a hobby for many collectors.

Key findings include:

• 31% of collectors said their collections are worth more than their savings accounts.
• Nearly 25% reported their collections exceed the value of their vehicles.
• Almost 40% said they had prioritized purchasing collectibles over household expenses such as bills or home repairs.
• 48% now view their collections as both a hobby and an investment.

The findings suggest that purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by both emotional attachment and long-term financial expectations.

Packaging Influences Buying Decisions

As collectible values rise, packaging has become an important part of the overall product experience.

The report found that:

• 70% of collectors have decided not to purchase a trading card product because the packaging appeared cheap or low quality.
• 51% of industry decision-makers are investing in higher-grade packaging materials and premium paperboard to meet collector expectations and support professional grading.

For packaging suppliers, this reflects growing demand for materials and print quality that help preserve products while reinforcing their perceived value.

Sustainability Remains a Priority

Despite the emphasis on premium presentation, environmental considerations continue to influence purchasing behavior.

According to the survey:

• 58% of collectors said they would pay more for products packaged in sustainable, plastic-free materials.

The results indicate that premium packaging and sustainability are increasingly viewed as complementary rather than competing objectives.

Omnichannel Sales Continue to Shape Packaging

The report also examined how collectors discover and purchase products.

While many brands now develop products specifically for livestream selling and social commerce, traditional retail remains important.

Collectors reported discovering products through:

• Retail stores (26%)
• Friends and collecting communities (21%)
• Livestream and digital commerce platforms

The findings suggest brands continue to benefit from omnichannel marketing strategies that combine physical retail with digital engagement.

Higher Expectations for Packaging Suppliers

As trading cards increasingly function as investment assets, packaging is becoming a larger part of the product’s value proposition.

For converters and packaging manufacturers, this trend is expected to increase demand for:

• Premium paperboard and substrates
• High-quality printing and finishing
• Protective packaging for distribution
• Packaging designed to maintain product condition for grading and long-term collection

The report highlights how packaging quality is becoming an increasingly important factor in specialty consumer markets, where presentation, protection and sustainability all contribute to purchasing decisions.

• 10 paper mills
• 90 corrugated products plants and related facilities

Last Updated on 24/07/2026 by Jota Machinery