Aftershock Comics has announced shipping delays for its upcoming releases, as coronavirus (COVID-19) hits the comic industry hard.
Joe Pruett, Aftershock Comics' Chief Creative Officer, wrote a letter to customers and fans about the unfortunate announcement. He spoke on how the comics company had been discussing lessening its impact due to COVID-19.
Pruett wrote, "We have had deep, serious discussions with Diamond and are prepared to participate, where we can, in initiatives and relief plans that they will put forward soon. We have also had conversations with many retailers, who have encouraged us to postpone shipments of our new books."
"As of this writing, we are working to delay such shipments by a minimum of 4 weeks, monitoring and re-evaluating daily the possible extension of this delay beyond 4 weeks, if necessary," Pruett added. "We look forward with hope and confidence to that time when we can return to business as usual."
Pruett made it clear that this action was in support of Aftershock's creators. "It’s their books that we’ve been entrusted to publish, promote and work with you to sell. As you know, we have some incredible new series set to launch and are determined to do so in an environment that benefits all contributors and stakeholders."
"Committed to remaining as flexible as possible, we will continue to monitor circumstances in this new era of unprecedented change and challenge," Pruett concluded. "And as broader programs are put forward, we will determine – in consultation with you — the best ways AfterShock might participate."
Titles affected by the delay include Disaster Inc. #1, Dead Day #1, Artemis and the Assassin #1, Undone by Blood #2, Godkillers #2, Shoplifters Will Be Liquidated #5 and Animosity #27.
It is unknown when the issues will finally be released to comic stores. The digital release is also delayed, so that they are available the same day the hard copy goes on sale in stores.