Massive Publishing Joins Lunar; Adds ‘Massive Indies’ Sub-Distribution Program

In the wake of Diamond Comics Distributors’ chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, Massive Publishing has announced a new partnership with Lunar Distribution for the direct market distribution of its titles and imprints.

Included in the deal is Massive’s premium limited product brand Massive Select. Up until now, Massive’s library of titles was only available to comic shops through its distribution agreement with Diamond. This new partnership will bring increased visibility to the Massive Publishing brand and expand its presence in the marketplace.

It also gives retailers more options on how to carry Massive’s upcoming releases and back catalog. Massive Publishing is also available to the book market through its exclusive book market distribution agreement with Simon & Schuster.

“Teaming up with Massive Publishing is a fantastic opportunity to further enrich our catalog,” said Christina Merkler, Co-Owner of Lunar. “Their diverse titles complement our existing lineup and allow us to offer even more variety to our retail partners. We’re eager to see the positive impact this partnership will have on our distribution network and the industry as a whole.”

Part of this strategic partnership with Lunar Distribution is the launch of Massive’s newest initiative, Massive Indies. The sub-distribution program is aimed at helping independent publishers and self-published studios get their books onto comic shop shelves worldwide. 

This will be an open platform for submitting titles for consideration in the Massive Indies solicitations of the Lunar catalog. Unlike the more common imprint model for publishers, this sub-distribution model will allow each publisher and studio to maintain their absolute independence and control over their publishing line. Massive is prioritizing publishers affected by Diamond Comic Distributors’ Chapter 11 Bankruptcy filing, but sees this as a possible game-changing process for creators to access the direct market without signing deals which compromise their intellectual property rights.  

“Massive started as a small team of self-published creators, freelancers, and indie press publishers with a mission of bringing the individual pieces together to create a stronger whole,” said Michael Calero, CEO and Co-Publisher of Massive Publishing. “Our goal is to ensure that indie comics continue to make their way onto the shelves of comic book shops and ultimately into the homes of readers.” 

“Our new partnership with Lunar is a reflection of our mutual commitment to comic book retailers and has the potential to be a game-changer for the way creators get their work out into the world,” added Kevin Roditeli, Co-Publisher of Massive Publishing.

Massive will begin to solicit products through Lunar Distribution starting in February. Publishers and studios interested in submitting to Massive Indies can do so at this link.