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The Nostalgia Business Never Dies: Panini America Gives Fans What They Crave With Digital Collectibles, On-Demand Printing

After reaching its peak in the 1990s, the sports trading card industry has had to undergo major changes in order to adapt to the digital age and remain relevant in our smartphone world. One company in particular, Panini America, has been leading the way when it comes to fan engagement on pixelated platforms (it’s now experimenting with fantasy-like contests for sports fans who collect digital trading cards.) But two examples of Panini’s success: It sold a Tom Brady autographed rookie card for $31,100, and its website crashed last week (OK, they need some IT help) because there was so much demand for Zion Williamson’s rookie card.