How to Launch a Line of Trading Cards
Trading cards originated in 1887, with the publication of the first baseball cards. They peaked in the 1980s and 1990s, during which baseball fans of all ages collected and traded the cards of major league players. These days, trading cards include sports cards, comic and superhero cards, Bible cards and other cards based on icons of popular culture, such as film characters. Launching a line of trading cards is an exciting business venture that could prove lucrative if executed properly.
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Instructions
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Contract with a manufacturer, unless you intend to print and package your cards independently. Many business card printers also specialize in the printing and packaging of trading cards. Also, many online printing companies produce high-quality trading cards by reproducing the designs of the client.
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Implement a method of packaging, based on the quality and value of the trading card. Typically, trading cards are packaged in cellophane, foil or plastic. More high-end trading cards are packaged in small tins. Select a method of packaging based on your business plans: Choose a cheaper method (cellophane, foil or plastic) if you want to market the cards at a competitive price. Choose tin if you want to market the cards at a higher price.
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Distinguish your line of trading cards by including an extra something special in the package. Think, for instance, of the sticks of gum that baseball card manufacturers used to include in packages. Include a treat or goodie, based on the kind of trading cards you are launching. You can include a temporary tattoo of a cartoon or comic character or a piece of candy if the trading cards will be marketed to a younger audience. Package any food items in a separate wrapper, according to FDA regulations.
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Promote your line of cards. Send free packages to local traders and sellers in your community, asking these persons to distribute the cards to customers as a promotional item. Advertise your line of cards by posting information about it on online trading forum communities. Also, ask friends and family members to distribute free samples to increase brand recognition.
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Sell your cards to traders and sellers in your town or community. List the cards on Ebay and other online trading forum communities that specialize in the kind of trading card that you produce. Attend trading card events and shows, and sell the cards at a booth.
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Tips & Warnings
Many trading card companies authenticate cards with a holograph or security sticker. These kinds of details assure traders and collectors that a card is not a fake. For cheaper trading cards, such authentication is not necessary.
References
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