Leaf Trading Cards, a leader in the trading card industry, has made a significant move with the acquisition and relaunch of the beloved Press Pass brand. Press Pass, known for its innovation in memorabilia cards, ceased operations in 2015 but is now set to make a comeback with a fresh lineup of products. The first release will feature high school quarterback JuJu Lewis, showcasing Leaf’s commitment to highlighting emerging talent in sports.
The revival of the Press Pass brand is being led by Leaf’s CEO, Kevin O’Neil, who brings a unique perspective to the venture. Having previously served as the Director of Sales at Press Pass, O’Neil is intimately familiar with the brand’s influential years and the impact it had on the trading card industry. With O’Neil at the helm, Leaf plans to release standalone Press Pass-branded products that pay homage to the brand’s storied past while infusing it with a modern touch.
One of the significant contributions of Press Pass to the trading card industry was the pioneer of the memorabilia card segment. In 1996, Press Pass released a NASCAR set that featured race-used tires, setting a precedent for the integration of authentic memorabilia into trading cards. This trend continued with the introduction of race-used sheet metal cards and the first game-used jersey basketball cards in a draft product that showcased future NBA stars such as Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson.
The acquisition and relaunch of Press Pass by Leaf Trading Cards represent a strategic expansion of Leaf’s product offerings. Leaf plans to merge nostalgia with contemporary sports memorabilia, capturing the hearts of both longtime collectors and a new generation of card enthusiasts. By breathing new life into the Press Pass brand, Leaf aims to reintroduce the legacy of Press Pass while continuing to innovate within the trading card market.
Leaf’s revitalization of Press Pass begins with a football trading card box featuring JuJu Lewis. Lewis, a highly promising high school junior, has already committed to playing football for USC, making him an exciting prospect for collectors. This initial relaunch product demonstrates Leaf’s dedication to not only honoring the tradition of Press Pass but also shining a spotlight on emerging talent in the world of sports.
The relaunch of Press Pass and the introduction of new trading card lines provides a fresh opportunity for collectors to delve into the world of sports memorabilia. With Leaf Trading Cards at the helm, the future of the distinguished Press Pass brand looks brighter than ever. Leaf is committed to preserving the brand’s legacy while forging new paths in the trading card industry, combining nostalgia with innovation.
In conclusion, Leaf Trading Cards’ acquisition and relaunch of the Press Pass brand is an exciting development in the trading card industry. The revival promises to bring back the nostalgia associated with Press Pass while captivating a new generation of collectors. With a focus on emerging talent like JuJu Lewis, Leaf Trading Cards is poised to create a buzz in the market and deliver innovative products that honor the brand’s rich history.
