JULY 21, 2017
9:30 – 10:15 Fresh Start – Room 18
ComicsPRO, the retailer trade association, starts your Friday at Comic-Con with a cup of java, light snacks and lively conversation about the business of comics. Industry retailers, publishers and distributors are encouraged to attend. Bring your business card! (Note: It's going to be a tight fit this year, because we only have 1 room instead of 2 rooms like usual).
9:30 – 10:15 Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailing Award Video Parade - Room 18
Join Joe Ferrara (Atlantis Fantasyworld, CA), the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award facilitator, for a look at videos of this year's retailer award finalists. Engaging discussion about each nominated retailer, the store's display techniques, and other unique features every attending retailer can learn from. Steal some great ideas for your store here!
10:20 – 10:45 ComicsPRO Announcements - Room 18
The ComicsPro Board and Executive Director will discuss Local Comic Shop Day 2017, plans for the future, and will thank retiring board director Joe Field for his service to ComicsPRO.
10:45 - 11:45 The State of the Industry - Room 18
What are the recent sales trends in comics? And more importantly, what’s the outlook near and long term for the business of comics? Join ComicsPRO President Peter Dolan and Executive Director Marco Davanzo as they discuss the state of comic book retail with various publishers.
12:00 p.m.- 2:30 p.m San Diego Comic-Con Retailer Appreciation Lunch - Room 31ABC.
You need to register with Diamond for this!
Hosted by Diamond, Dark Horse Comics, DC Entertainment, IDW Publishing, Marvel Comics, BOOM! Studios, Titan Publishing, Valiant Entertainment, and more confirmed sponsors to come! All sponsors will make presentations, announcing their upcoming editorial plans and other news you won't want to miss. Diamond will also be on hand to present new initiatives for retailers as well take Q&A from attending retailers.
3:00p.m. - 4:00p.m. So You Want To Be a Comic Book Retailer? - Room 25ABC (OPEN TO THE PUBLIC)
If you've ever thought about owning your own comic shop, then this ComicsPRO-sponsored event is for you! You've got questions and these veteran retailers have the answers! Free Comic Book Day founder and panel host Joe Field (Flying Colors Comics, Concord CA) moderates this panel of Comics Retailers and Industry Professionals.