Built by Collectors: The Story Behind Malko Protectors
, by Sergio Martinez, 2 min reading time
Malko Protectors started with a simple goal: protect physical media the right way. Built by a collector, our story begins at a Michigan garage sale and grows into a brand focused on preserving Steelbooks, boutique editions, and the packaging that makes collecting special.
Malko Protectors technically started at a garage sale in the Thumb of Michigan, with a box of vintage G.I. Joe figures.
Originally from Madrid, Spain, I had never experienced garage sales until I moved to the United States in 2013. Once I was introduced to digging through other people’s unwanted items, I was hooked. I’ve always been a collector — action figures, movies, video games, you name it — and thrifting only amplified my love for physical media and pop culture.
As my collection grew, I quickly realized there was a problem: there simply weren’t good protection options for many of the things I collected. So, I decided to create them. What started as a solution for my own collection turned into Malko Protectors.
Today, we design protectors for a wide range of collectibles, including movies, video games, action figures, and more. Every protector is made from recyclable PET plastic, built to be durable (they’re kid-tested — trust me), and designed specifically for the item it protects, ensuring a snug, proper fit rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Physical media collecting has always been at the core of my passion. Over time, that focus naturally shifted toward movies — especially Steelbooks, limited editions, and boutique label releases — where packaging, artwork, and presentation are just as important as the film itself. As those collections grew, so did the need for protectors that were designed specifically for each format, rather than generic solutions that didn’t quite fit.
One of my favorite moments as a collector is sliding a Steelbook into a properly fitted protector for the first time. The difference is immediate. Edges look cleaner, artwork pops, and even releases with minor shelf wear suddenly feel more complete and display-ready. It’s a small step that makes a big difference when you care about preserving physical media the right way.
When you purchase from Malko Protectors, you’re not just supporting a small business — you’re buying protection that was designed by an actual collector who understands how important these items are. Every product we make is created with the same care I want for my own collection.
As always, happy collecting.
Sergio Martinez
Malko Protectors