Image Comics signs exclusively with Lunar for direct market distribution

Image Comics will join DC Comics and other publishers at Lunar Distribution for their direct market distribution. Beginning with their September titles, which will be solicited in June, Image will shift away from Diamond Comics Distributors to a new distributor for the first time since the company was founded three decades ago.

“We have enjoyed our relationship with Diamond over the decades and we have made some wonderful friends there, so this decision has been a difficult one,” said Erik Larsen, a founder and current CFO at Image Comics. “It was not a move that we made lightly, though, and ultimately, the change was made because of the benefits to readers and retailers who are our real customers. There are services Lunar will provide that will make it easier for stores to buy our titles, and for fans to find our books. This is a big win for them, and we hope this new partnership is as strong and long-lasting as the previous one. We wish Diamond nothing but the best as we look toward the future.”

According to the Beat, this doesn’t mean that Image is finished with Diamond. Diamond Books will remain Image’s bookstore distributor, while Diamond’s Steve Geppi said in a statement that Diamond will continue to offer Image’s line as a wholesaler, much like they now do with IDW, Marvel and Dark Horse, who moved to Penguin Random House for their distribution.

“This is a big change, but we will still be working with Diamond in other capacities and look forward to maintaining those relationships with the Diamond team for years to come,” said Eric Stephenson, Image’s publisher and chief creative officer. “Lunar is an impressive new player in the direct market, and we are eager to work with them on the next phase of our development, as well as joining DC in leading the industry toward what we believe are positive changes for everyone.”

Lunar first entered the world of comic distribution in 2020, during the early days of the pandemic, as DC looked for alternatives to deliver comics to shops while Diamond shut down. Lunar, which was born from mail-order retailer Discount Comic Book Service, has continued to add publishers to their roster, including Scout Comics, DSTLRY, Oni Press and more.

“We are thrilled to announce our exclusive worldwide distribution deal with Image Comics,” said Christina Merkler, co-owner of Lunar Distribution. “We are constantly seeking innovative ways to expand our reach and bring exceptional content to our retail accounts around the world. This partnership will allow us to further expand our offerings and provide unparalleled access to the most exciting and sought-after titles in the industry. We look forward to working closely with Image and continuing to provide top-notch service to our Direct Market accounts.”