I was recently in my local Best Buy, and noticed a selection of audio CDs that now come in simply a cardboard sleeve packaging. No jewel case, and no extra packaging. They also were promoting these as “eco-conscious”, and it didn’t hurt that they were on sale for around $7.99 each (I consider this a fair price for simply the audio CD with minimum packaging).
So, I picked up a couple releases that were on sale.
At first thought, this seems like it could be a good idea. I can see it taking up less space in my CD library shelf. I can see the reduced price as a good trend. Since I’m not a big reader of the inserts, I don’t miss that either (most releases are showing a website where you can find additional information on the release).
On the downside of the idea is the fact that it’s pretty hard to read the side spine on the sleeve. So, once on the shelf, it could be hard to find the disc you are looking for (especially if you have a bunch of these sleeves together). Also, if they don’t keep the price down, there could be the perception that you aren’t really getting much value for your dollar (why spend $8 on the cheap sleeve, when you could get the jewel case version for $10?)
I’ve read some customer reviews of online purchases, which turned out to be the cardboard sleeve packaging, and the customers are pretty upset. Most seem to wish they knew ahead of time (listing doesn’t mention packaging on Amazon), or had the choice up front.
So, I throw the idea out for discussion: Is this trend a good thing and should continue, or is this simply a case of companies trying to make their product more profitable?
Tim
