Diamond Comic Distributors has announced that its assets will be acquired by Universal Distribution and Ad Populum following the shakeup earlier this week when its agreement with Alliance Entertainment fell through.
“We are pleased that the court has approved Universal and Ad Populum’s combined bid. Our priority during this process has been to minimize disruption to publishers, retailers, our employees, and comic and games fans everywhere,” says Robert Gorin, Chief Restructuring Officer at Diamond Comic Distributors. “We are confident that this will provide the best outcome for everyone involved.”
Universal Distribution is a Canada-based company that has been distributing comics, collectibles, trading cards, and more for more than 30 years.
“This expansion into the U.S. market through our acquisition of Alliance Game Distributors marks a pivotal moment for Universal Distribution,” says Angelo Exarhakos, President and CEO of Universal Distribution. “We’re committed to building strong, transparent partnerships and ensuring that Alliance continues to serve as a reliable and resilient link in the supply chain.”
Ad Populum also owns some of the biggest names in the collectibles space, including NECA, Kidrobot, Wizkids, Chia Pet, Rubies, Smiffys, Enesco, Graceland, and more.
“Ever since I was young, I’ll never forget walking through the front door of my neighborhood shop and spotting those iconic Diamond Comic boxes, each one opening to reveal my dreams and ambitions,” says Joel Weinshanker, Managing Director of Ad Populum. “We’re incredibly excited to build on Diamond’s remarkable legacy by bringing Ad Populum’s best-in-class sales, marketing, and distribution to the next chapter.”
Universal Distribution will acquire the assets of Alliance Game Distributors while Ad Populum will acquire Diamond Comic Distributors, Diamond Book Distributors, Diamond Select Toys & Collectibles, Collectible Grading Authority, and other assets. Diamond UK is separate from this sale process.
