(Hunt Valley, MD) — (March 24, 2020) — Diamond Comic Distributors, the world’s largest distributor of English-language comic books, graphic novels, and pop culture merchandise, is pleased to announce that it has signed a distribution agreement with Kodansha Comics to exclusively distribute their products to comic book specialty markets worldwide. Diamond was also awarded the rights to exclusively distribute Kodansha Comics’ new releases to the UK and Ireland book markets under the banner of Diamond Book Distributors UK.
Effective August 1, 2020, Diamond Comic Distributors will assume exclusive sales and distribution for Kodansha Comics in traditional and non-traditional book channels. Kodansha Comics has huge pedigree in the manga market and, with the likes of Attack on Titan, Akira, Sailor Moon, Fairy Tale, Ghost in the Shell and many more within their imprint, they are a perfect fit with Diamond’s current publishing partners.
“We are delighted that the fantastic, expanding catalogue of English language manga from Kodansha Comics will now be available via Diamond Comic Distributors UK. Both Kodansha Europe and Kodansha Comics are looking forward to working with them to ensure the continued growth of Kodansha Manga in the UK,” said Tim Wilkes, Managing Director, Kodansha Europe Ltd
“Diamond UK is extremely excited to work with Kodansha Europe and look forward to helping them to take Kodansha Comics to new heights. The addition of Kodansha Comics to our ranks helps reinforce Diamond as the primary source of Entertainment Culture products and services. I’m confident that our global presence in other markets can help them reach their full sales potential and we’re ready to go to work and deliver on that promise,” said Mike Holman, General Manager, Diamond Comic Distributors UK.