Sept. 24, 2025

61. Labubu - the rise and risks of blind box packaging

61. Labubu - the rise and risks of blind box packaging
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61. Labubu - the rise and risks of blind box packaging

The blind box market is booming, valued at more than $15 billion, with over 10 million Labubu dolls sold each month. But behind the thrill of surprise lies something darker, a system fuelled by FOMO and overconsumption. In this episode, we unbox the packaging to uncover the hidden psychology of blind boxes. Plus, are yoghurt pots rubbish or not, can wet cardboard be recycled, and is Robbie a secret video game model?

The blind box market is booming, valued at more than $15 billion, with over 10 million Labubu dolls sold each month. But behind the thrill of surprise lies something darker, a system fuelled by FOMO and overconsumption. In this episode, we unbox the packaging to uncover the hidden psychology of blind boxes. Plus, are yoghurt pots rubbish or not, can wet cardboard be recycled, and is Robbie a secret video game model?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

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Timestamps:
The rise and risks of blind box packaging - 02:25
Additions and corrections - 30:54
Rubbish or Not: yoghurt pots - 37:15
Rubbish News - 42:04
Can wet cardboard be recycled? - 47:42
Residual Rubbish - 50:58

 

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL