In an effort to boost CD sales, Universal Music Group International has unveiled a three-tiered CD packaging and pricing scheme. The announcement covers CDs sold in Europe only. Those in the technology/digital field may scratch their heads, but the CD is still a very viable format that deserves at least some of the attention given to the development of digital business models.

Starting September 18th, CDs sold in traditional jewel cases will be upgraded to a standard "super jewel box" packaging, which differs from the usual jewel box in that the edges are rounder, hinges are stronger and it has a locking clasp. The top of the line will be the "deluxe" version, a CD plus a limited-edition bonus CD or DVD. Some albums released over a year ago will be released in a "basic" format and packaged in a slide-pack jewel case, which will be a no-frills cardboard sleeve. (Searches for pictures of a CD slide pack returned only this description from a few online CD stores: "The CD Slide Pack is a New Form of No-frills CD Packaging featuring an Outer Slipcase with the Original Cover Artwork, and an Inner 'slider' Including a CD.")

UMGI chairman/CEO said this comes at "no extra cost to the fans," which will certainly be the case if consumers are given an option. Since the DualDisc has been rolled out some titles have not been made available in a less expensive, CD-only format. Giving consumers more choice is wonderful -- as long as they actually have a choice.

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