Leaf Trading Cards has made a big move in the trading card industry with the official acquisition and relaunch of the iconic Press Pass brand. Press Pass, known for its innovative approach to memorabilia cards, ceased operations in 2015 but is now set for a comeback.
With a focus on both tradition and innovation, Leaf Trading Cards plans to breathe new life into the Press Pass brand. Spearheading this relaunch is a football trading card box that puts the spotlight on JuJu Lewis, a highly promising high school quarterback, and USC commit for the class of 2025. Leaf’s commitment to showcasing emerging talent in sports is evident in this first product of the revived Press Pass brand.
Leaf’s CEO, Kevin O’Neil, brings a unique perspective to this venture, as he was previously the Director of Sales at Press Pass during its influential years. With O’Neil at the helm, Leaf has ambitious plans to release standalone Press Pass-branded products that pay tribute to the brand’s storied past while delivering modern collections.
One of Press Pass’s notable contributions to the trading card industry was pioneering the memorabilia card segment. In 1996, Press Pass released a NASCAR set that featured race-used tires, setting a new standard for authenticity in trading cards. This innovation continued with the introduction of race-used sheet metal cards and the first-ever game-used jersey basketball cards in a draft product that showcased future NBA stars like Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson.
The acquisition and revival of Press Pass by Leaf Trading Cards represents a strategic expansion of Leaf’s product offerings. By merging nostalgia with contemporary sports memorabilia, Leaf aims to introduce a new generation of collectors to the Press Pass legacy while also pushing the boundaries of innovation within the trading card market.
The return of the Press Pass brand is sure to excite collectors and enthusiasts alike. It provides a unique opportunity to engage with a brand that holds a special place in the history of trading cards. Leaf’s commitment to spotlighting emerging talent, starting with high school football quarterback JuJu Lewis, adds an extra element of excitement and anticipation to the relaunch.
Leaf Trading Cards has shown its dedication to maintaining the legacy of Press Pass while infusing it with new energy and ideas. With CEO Kevin O’Neil’s experience and passion for the brand, the future of Press Pass under Leaf’s ownership looks promising.
As the trading card industry continues to evolve, Leaf Trading Cards’ acquisition and relaunch of Press Pass demonstrate the ongoing importance of honoring the past while embracing the future. Collectors and fans can look forward to the revival of the iconic Press Pass brand, which promises to once again deliver memorable and innovative trading card collections that capture the spirit of sports.
