Digipak is a patented style of compact disc or DVD packaging, and is a registered trademark of AGI Media, a MeadWestvaco, Inc. resource, which acquired the original trademark holder, IMPAC Group, Inc., in 2000. MeadWestvaco licenses the name and designs to manufacturers around the world. Digipaks typically consist of a gatefold (book-style) paperboard or card stock outer binding, with one or more plastic trays capable of holding a CD or DVD attached to the inside. Since Digipaks were among the first alternatives to jewel cases to be used by major record companies, and because there is no other common name for Digipak-style packaging made by other companies, the term digipak, Digi-Pak [1], is often used generically, even when the media holder is a hub or "Soft Spot"[2] rather than a full plastic tray.
Digipak-style packaging is often used for CD singles or special editions of CD albums. Because such packaging is less resistant to abrasion than jewel cases, it tends to show signs of wear relatively quickly. Licensed digipak manufacturers such as domestic U.S. printer/CD replicator Oasis Disc Manufacturing recommend coating the raw printed paper with a protective UV matte or UV gloss finish, thus ensuring greater longevity.
Although less vulnerable to cracking than a jewel case, the disc tray inside the package (particularly the "teeth" of the hub which secure the disc in place) remains rather brittle and is prone to cracking if the package is crushed. Digipak-style cases grew in popularity among record labels and recording artists in the early 2000s.
Manufacturers have sought to reduce environmental impact and improve functionality, by introducing recycled components into its trays; one has announced a 100% post-consumer PET tray made from recycled water and/or soda bottles,[3] which also eliminates the need for the brittle "teeth". Many printers use recycled or sustainable material for the board stock.