Merchandise container with internal storage compartment and method of distributing merchandise

Abstract

A merchandise container comprises a coaster member including a top surface, for receiving a beverage container thereon; a storage compartment positioned within the coaster member for receiving and storing a merchandise item therein; and a means for securing the merchandise item within the storage compartment.

1 . A merchandise container comprising: 
 a coaster including a top surface capable of displaying at least one of graphical or text images, said top surface being capable of accepting a beverage container;    a storage compartment for receipt of an item therein, said storage compartment being within said coaster and beneath said top surface; and    means for securing said item within said storage compartment.    
   
   
       2 . The merchandise container of  claim 1 , wherein said means for securing said item within said storage compartment is accomplished through a friction, interference fit between said item and said storage compartment's walls.  
   
   
       3 . The merchandise container of  claim 1 , wherein said item comprises a compact disc.  
   
   
       4 . The merchandise container of  claim 3 , wherein said means for maintaining said item within said storage compartment comprises a hub, 
 said hub extending from adjacent said top surface and being operably positioned within said storage compartment so as to be at least partially inserted through said compact disc towards maintaining said compact disc within said storage compartment.    
   
   
       5 . The merchandise container of  claim 3 , wherein the means for maintaining the merchandise item within the storage compartment comprises a closure member adapted for insertion within the storage compartment.  
   
   
       6 . The merchandise container of  claim 5 , wherein the closure m ember is maintained in place within the storage compartment by means of a friction fit between the closure member and the storage compartment.  
   
   
       7 . The merchandise container of  claim 5 , wherein the closure: member comprises a tab for engagement with the storage compartment, for maintaining the closure member in place within the storage compartment.  
   
   
       8 . The merchandise container of  claim 1 , wherein the coaster member includes graphics imprinted on the flat top surface thereof.  
   
   
       9 . The merchandise container of  claim 1 , wherein the coaster member is constructed from a moisture-absorbent material.  
   
   
       10 . The merchandise container of  claim 9 , wherein the moisture-absorbent material comprises paper.  
   
   
       11 . The merchandise container of  claim 1 , wherein the coaster member is constructed from a non-absorbent material.  
   
   
       12 . The merchandise container of  claim 11 , wherein the non-absorbent material is plastic.