Rant about the Hockey Memorabilia Industry

I've just about had it with a certain company in Toronto whom has been making a huge mark-up on consumers (merely my opinion, not backed by any actual numbers or figures) for a piece of autographed hockey memorabilia. This company has signed many of today's young guns to exclusive contracts, and therefore completely monopolizing the markets for collectors in obtaining autographed collectibles from these certain players. While I have no problem in a company having a desire to obtain are player's exclusivity, I do have a problem when an autograph picture of an unproven rookie is going to cost me more than getting the same sized picture signed from a 6 time Norris trophy winner. I have a problem with paying more for an autograph jersey from the current Calder Trophy recipient compared to the reigning Hart Trophy winner.

Now I am unsure of the exact reasons why said company is charging such a price for their products, nor will I speculate the reasons, but when their other local competitor is charging equal amount for higher caliber players, it brings into question whether it is the contracts they offer to these players to obtain their exclusivity, or whether it is simply greed driving up the prices. At the same time, not only do their competitor offer lower prices, they even offer the collectors a chance to meet the players in person, giving fans a chance to meet their heroes, giving kids a chance to create memories to last a life time.

Unfortunately, with players like Crosby/Malkin/Toews/Kane etc. exclusive to this company, it forces collectors to hand over a healthy sum of money for various valued collectibles. As one, I would like to see changes over time, but given the demand for products from this company, it is extremely unlikely for that to happen - which is unfortunate for collectors like myself whom may never own a piece from these players for the exact reasons listed above.

*the views expressed here are merely by the author and is not associated or affiliated with any of the companies mentioned