Article by Chris Foti
A few weeks ago, Diamond Distributors suspended new orders from being shipped to its warehouses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the comic book industry’s largest distributor, this effected not only DC, but Marvel, Dark Horse and more from releasing new comics. Yesterday, DC announced plans to resume a limited release of new books, starting from April 28th.
Daphne Byrne #4, The Dreaming #20 and Batman Giant #4 will kick off this limited release window, along with the planned reprints of Batman #89 and Nightwing #70.
May 5 will have Batman & The Outsiders #12, The Flash #753, The Green Lantern Season Two #3, Hawkman #23, House of Whispers #20, Joker/Harley: Criminal Sanity #4 and DC Super Stars #17.
On May 12, DC is expected to release Harley Quinn #72, Justice League #44, Justice League Odyssey #20, Lois Lane #10 and Metal Men #6.
There have been no specifics on any other titles during this time. DC set up a comic shop locator to help readers find stores scheduled to participate.
While Diamond does plan to resume distribution in mid-to late May, DC has set up new deals with Lunar Distribution and UCS Comic Distributors for these new comics.
Obviously, this isn’t a return to normal, but it’s a step in the right direction. It will be interesting to see the business ramifications of this. Will Diamond regain its place as the primary distributor, or is this the foot in the door that Lunar and UCS needed to gain more business? COVID-19 will certainly ruin many businesses, but situations like this might see others seize an opportunity and come out stronger than ever.
Are you excited to have new comics on April 28? Which of these titles will you be picking up? Let us know!