You know, Jim Morrison of The Doors once said, “Show me the way to the next comic shop.” Okay, maybe that wasn’t the exact lyric, but, thanks to Marvel and the wonders of modern technology, you can say just that and expect swift results.
As part of a new marketing initiative, the publisher will make use of GeoTargeting tech in an effort to draw new and old readers into comic shops. Quite frankly, it’s an ingenious strategy when you consider that millions of people who may have no comic book reading experience may have just viewed the latest Marvel Studios film and are looking to sample the source material. Sure, you can find some of this stuff at mainstream booksellers, but the comic shop offers a different type of environment; I’d say it’s comparable to choosing a specialized video game retailer over your nearest superstore.
On that note, David Gabriel, Marvel SVP Sales & Marketing, had this to say:
“Marvel is always looking for ways to get more people through the doors of their local comic stores. With these new tools at our disposal, we’re looking to tap into fans of Marvel television, films, animation, games and even our licensed product and turn them into comic book readers. Not only will these prospective readers learn exactly where their nearest shop is, but all the great Marvel comics waiting for them when they get there!”
To give more of an idea of what to expect, here’s the word straight from Marvel themselves:
Once again leading the way in how comics reach larger audiences, these new technologies will provide both new, casual, and hardcore fans with information about comic shops in their area (location, store hours, phone #) and the exciting Marvel Comics waiting for them inside! Embedded within Marvel e-mails, shared across over Marvel social media networks, fed through advertising partners, and more – this ambitious program is estimated to reach millions of prospective readers – both new and existing!
Be sure to stay tuned, as we’ll bring you more details regarding this bold new initiative from Marvel, should they become available. With major releases such as Secret Empire looming, the ball should get rolling very shortly.
