Polygon confirmed that Digital Comic Distribadors, which eventually spreads beyond the circulation of comics in North America and England, is instructing publishers to stop sending the company new releases until further notice.
"A product distributed by Diamond and threatened by the date of sale on April 1 or later will not be distributed to retailers until further notice," Diamond chairman and CEO Steve Geppi said the statement.
Diamond is a special distributor – shipping jokes from printers to publishers – DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Horse Horse Comics and Image Comics, among other publishers. This comes after the first week in which many parts of America came within the limits of the public cuts due to the outbreak of the novel, forcing comics to reduce their average business value. Many shops are completely closed, to comply with the law as their communities fall under the "shelter".
From Geppi's statement:
We hear from thousands of marketers that they are no longer able to work with their customers as they once did, many of whom are forced to shut down by government action or turn around to bring people in or return their services. Even those who are still open are seeing a reduction in foot pain over time, a condition that seems to escalate over time.
Our publishing partners also deal with many problems in their supply chain, working with creators, printers, and a number of uncerta inties in the production and delivery of products that we will distribute. Our freight networks are feeling the pressures and are already experiencing delays, while our distribution centers in New York, California and Pennsylvania all shut down late last week. Our home office in Maryland has initiated work from home policy, and experts say we can expect it to be closed again. Therefore, my only logical conclusion is to stop the distribution of the new product of the week until further clarification is made on the progress made in curbing the spread of the disease.
Diamond's decision could mean that even regional comic shops that have not yet been subject to strict closure laws will be forced to close their doors for lack of a product to sell.
To those sales, Geppi said "I encourage you to release your own artwork. In the meantime, you will be able to replenish your perennials from Diamond and / or Alliance, but you must also remember the stock you already have in your stores. If your doors remain open, you may be Customers will continue to want to stay tuned to world events. ”
Diamond's closure will undoubtedly have a huge impact on comic publishers who rely on Diamond to send their physical books – both monthly and graphic novels. Polygon has reached out to DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dark Horse Comics, and Image Comics for comment.
