Transition to 100% Recyclable Packaging Enhances Structural Integrity | Retail
3/18/2026
RRD’s hourglass-shaped paper sleeve packaging eliminates need for blister component, enhances sustainability and product presentation
CHALLENGE
A leading provider of collectible card games was aiming to move away from traditional blister packaging for their retail booster packs — trading card packs designed to expand a player’s existing collection. Instead, they sought paperboard packaging that would offer sustainability and eye-catching aesthetics, plus maintain structural integrity in a store environment.
SOLUTION
The company chose RRD, a long-time partner, to develop a collectibles packaging solution that would meet the their specific requirements.
RRD’s structural designers and packaging experts conceptualized a variety of structures, ultimately proposing an hourglass-shaped paper sleeve package as an alternative to the blister with card packaging. By eliminating the need for the blister component, the paper sleeve transitions the booster pack’s packaging production to 100% recyclable materials.
In addition, the package’s hourglass shape serves to securely hold the product in place in a retail environment. Its ergonomic, user-friendly design — coupled with its capacity for high-impact print and finishing — makes a favorable impression on prospective purchasers.
The hourglass shape also has a positive impact on production efficiency, with the one-piece, integrated design allowing for automated manufacturing (folding and gluing). To enhance product security, EAS or security tags can be applied inline.
RESULTS
RRD’s hourglass-shaped paper sleeve package for the company’s retail booster packs eliminated the need for a blister component. Results included:
- Packaging production shifted to 100% recyclable materials
- The hourglass shape securely holds the product in place in a retail store, ensuring an effective presentation to customers
- Enhanced production efficiency and speed due to the one-piece design accommodating automated manufacturing
- The paperboard sleeve provides ample real estate for branding and enhanced graphical treatments for elevated shelf appeal
- The hourglass packaging concept has become the industry standard packaging for booster packs