Digital comics have often been criticized, and the debate on whether it is a good idea for creators and publishers to go digital has been a heated topic of debate for the last several years. It seems, however, that now more than ever the move to digital seems inevitable. Yet, as a consumer, how do you justify purchasing comic books and graphic novels digitally without feeling like you've turned your back on your local comic shop? In an effort to combat this problem, Comixology has teamed up with DC comics to create a Digital Storefront Affiliate Program. The program will essentially allow local shops to obtain a profit from the sale of digital comics by integrating Comixology's technology on their respective websites. In addition, retailers will also have the opportunity of signing up for the exclusive DC online store.
“Publishers have quickly recognized that the Digital Storefront Affiliate Program is a win-win situation for both themselves and the retailers to sell more comics,” said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “Having DC, Image, BOOM!, Dynamite and all the other publishers on board shows their continued commitment to the vibrant retailer community and ability to continually innovate.”
Additional publishers involved in the program include Image (including Shadowline and Top Cow), BOOM! Studios and Dynamite Entertainment. The purpose of this venture is to reinforce and strengthen the relationship between retailers and publishers, and enable the stores to profit from digital sales. While this is big news, there does seem to be a catch. It seems that the only way this will benefit retailers is if they already have a strong online presence- which most LCS' do not have. It will certainly be interesting to see this new step in the expansion of digital comics. Do you think this is a good move for retailers and publishers?