wow this video went so fast. That means I was absorbed in it. I wish more customers would watch this and understand for a moment what goes on when running a business
Definitely need that tour, also wish my comic shops in San Antonio, Tx had $1 and quarter bins Like Russ mentions. The closest thing I get is Half price books prices in back issues.
I remember when i was about 8 or 9 in the late 80s and most comic shops were also baseball card shops. When was a kid I bought all my comics from Lone Star Comics Irving location next to Hooters. It closed in 2008.
running a comic book store is just like any other business...you open one for the love of the hobby, but just like any other business you really need a good business plan...great video on the ins and outs of running one on a day to day basis
Good video guys! I enjoy learning the business side of the industry, so this is right up my alley. Ya'll should do a field trip to Mill Geek Comics and give us a tour.
Ryan is hosting now! My favorite part was watching him try to contain the humor of Russ. Not as easy task. The first five minutes were classic. Great information. I've always suspected it was a tough gig running an LCS just seeing as how few Last for even one year. Thanks for giving us a better view into the stockroom of a real shop. My LCS offer a discount if you pick up your books the day they come out and I've made it a point of fitting into my Wednesday ever since.
Lolz at deep breadth beginning! Very informative video. Always curious about the logistics for comic book stores and all the more reason to support your LCS. Keep up the great work!
I've always wanted to know more about the inner workings of a comic shop, and I would love to see more videos where Russ talks about the business. Keep up the great work!
Great video! I've kind of known the process from talking to my local LCS guys, but it's great information to have out there for people so they understand how important it is to go get their stuff--AND to understand if they're getting out of comics they have to let their guy know and commit to at least the stuff they've already ordered!
Didn't Say it wasn't good, but IMHO with comics at $3.99, $4.99 and up, people are being selective about what they buy. It's a good read. We like Jason Aaron, but People are definitely holding back on how many comics they buy every month
@@MillGeekComics I guess I'm just surprised not everyone is on Avengers. I myslef have been starting to cut back because there has been so much lately but this Avengers run is a must have in the pull. It's cool you replied back, thanks Russ!
Thanks for all the info. I am actually taking that leap of faith and opening my own Comic Shop. It’s great hearing how you run your business. Trying to figure out what new comics to order seems to be one of the more challenging things I will deal with.
Good luck! It's a super tough business! Feel free to e-mail me directly and I will see if I can help a little. I have never been more spiritually rich and financially poor :)
thats why it is hard to stay off comic stores online. i can just go on there and pick what i want. if i find out late that something is good, its too late to get it from my local. great video guys. i will always go to my LCS first, but diamond and low sales isn't helping
I would kill to have a comic shop like this near me I have tried both of my local shops and they are always messing up my pull list or just not pulling books for me at all love your guys channel keep up the good work
I had to ask my LCS guy and said the worst customer was one that would wait til he got his taxes and then would pick up all his books, but taking a gamble hoping he would come back at end of the year.
It's insane 🤣😂 how I'm just seeing this wish i found all of you guy when this video released!!! Look how far you guys have came but this helps me out a lot for one day I'll have a comic book shop. 🤙🏽🤙🏽🍻🍻🔥🔥🔥🔥
One of the things my LCS does is bundle runs of a title for a reduced price. My LCS guy discovered it's easier to sell a collected run of a title for a discounted price as opposed to selling them as singles in a discount bin. It's easier to sell "New 52 Batwing" issues 1-25 as a bundle for $19.99 which saves the customer from wasting time having to flip through the discount bin looking for singles hoping to get a complete run.
You guys are constantly putting out great info and I love it! As someone that works in a comic shop I really appreciate this kind of content for those that don’t think about things this way. Another awesome video! Congrats on 5K! 🖤💥
This is like that book “Why do men have nipples and other questions you’re too afraid to ask your doctor” Can you talk about the best way to ensure, as a customer, you get ratio variants? My shop never seems to get them so I don’t bother asking for them unless it’s an open to order type thing.
Kyle Carson . I find you have to strike up a conversation and maybe build a relationship with your LCS. This relationship can help you find out if they are bringing in a variant, or you can ask them to bring it in, and it can also put you first on the list. If it's a ratio variant, you will undoubtedly have to pay extra.
"Comic courtesy": a new term because I misheard Fireguy at the end. Also, my question is kind of mirrored in some of the other comments but; how are such good finds found in "dollar bins", in a LCS, when the knowledge of those within can obviously determine what is valuable enough to NOT be in the dollar bin? Or are these issues, keys etc found elsewhere like HPBooks?
I'm so fascinated with the experience and culture of owning a comic book store. It's a dream of mine, but I think I would prefer spending my time at the dollar bin building up my collections rather than stressing over on bills and keeping the store afloat. There should be a sitcom specifically on running a comic shop, without the unnecessary 00s drama that you see in most shows.
I wish you’d guys do a part two of this, but sort of a prequel where starting a comic shop business (the money, showcase/shelving, and material needs). Might be boring or tedious, but I doubt that.
Really enjoyed this video! Would love to see more videos like this where you guys talk about owning a comic book shop and what its like to run one! How did you come to having a shop?
Back during the pre and post blackest night run I had my LCS order green lantern and green lantern corps, however they would throw in other green lantern titles. Most of the time I just bought them. So my question to you is do you think shops do that to get rid of inventory/sell a less popular title?
I think DC/Marvel does that and not necessarily the shop. Blackest night had like 53 offshoots and that was DC's attempt to sell you the less popular titles. The shops may order the things they feel are necessary to the storyline but a lot of us have scaled back on buying those things...
@@MillGeekComics it keeps the customer away from buying it, even though they want it. Diamond is known for sending books and getting damaged. But they dont seem to care much because the store owner is still stuck with the bill.
@@johnnyfuture3524 we have a large amount of shops in the area, so most will just drive ten minutes to the nearest comic shop. It's really bad when everyone in the Seattle area has the same "bad batch"
Hate how Marvel re-launches titles with 30 different covers! Not cool for me the consumer, not cool for you guys the shop owners! Can be a scary game...
Another great episode. What do you think about people who has a pull list and can only pick up once a month. My lcs let's me pick up my comics monthly because due to health reasons I can only get by once a month. Does it hurt in any way. I never miss a month to get by and pick them up. Thanks
From my experience talking to a few different shop owners in my area, I agree with Russ. As long as you communicate with the LCS, and they are good with the arrangement, the customer actually picks it up, then there isn't a problem. I actually pickup once a month with my local shop, and have on occasion told them I was going to be an extra month late, and they were fine with it.
Do comic shop owners buy new books at 50% of the cover price? Also, does it get cheaper per book if you buy more quantity or does it stay the same regardless of how many you buy? Thanks great video guys 👍👍
Just Wilder The mark-up is usually around 50% and it may be slightly higher if the shop’s monthly orders reach a high enough quantity per the publishers requirement. It’s also important to note that shipping cost is not included in the base mark-up.
Still getting Avengers here.How terrible is is to say, oh sorry that comic book you put in my box, I know it was on my Previews order, but I don’t want it anymore?
Shops have to pay for EVERY COMIC on their wall when it gets here. If you know you want to cancel a title, let them know ASAP. If you stop to pick up your box and don't buy it that day you have already lost the shop money. That's why a lot of shops go out of business. Customers don't understand that I have to write a check between $1200-2k per week and am already starting Wednesday over a grand in the hole...
wow this video went so fast. That means I was absorbed in it. I wish more customers would watch this and understand for a moment what goes on when running a business
Bro we need a tour of Russ comic book store. I bet it would be a great video. 🤞
That's in the plan, probably something live from the shop, a q+a. Pretty sure we can make something happen for Halloween comic fest
Definitely need that tour, also wish my comic shops in San Antonio, Tx had $1 and quarter bins Like Russ mentions. The closest thing I get is Half price books prices in back issues.
*Pauses Comictom101 video and opens new Comictom101 video*
I remember when i was about 8 or 9 in the late 80s and most comic shops were also baseball card shops. When was a kid I bought all my comics from Lone Star Comics Irving location next to Hooters. It closed in 2008.
Love waking up and seeing a new video in the morning. Listening to this while I get ready to start the day.
running a comic book store is just like any other business...you open one for the love of the hobby, but just like any other business you really need a good business plan...great video on the ins and outs of running one on a day to day basis
Good video guys! I enjoy learning the business side of the industry, so this is right up my alley. Ya'll should do a field trip to Mill Geek Comics and give us a tour.
You guys are totally underrated. I've been watching your guys' videos nonstop! Keep up the good work, hope to see you guys grow even more!
Ryan is hosting now! My favorite part was watching him try to contain the humor of Russ. Not as easy task. The first five minutes were classic. Great information. I've always suspected it was a tough gig running an LCS just seeing as how few Last for even one year. Thanks for giving us a better view into the stockroom of a real shop. My LCS offer a discount if you pick up your books the day they come out and I've made it a point of fitting into my Wednesday ever since.
I’m so happy i discovered you guys on UA-cam.. All your videos are so great.. You’ve gained a fan Down Under in Australia
Lolz at deep breadth beginning! Very informative video. Always curious about the logistics for comic book stores and all the more reason to support your LCS. Keep up the great work!
I've always wanted to know more about the inner workings of a comic shop, and I would love to see more videos where Russ talks about the business. Keep up the great work!
Thanks, that's the plan!
Great video! I've kind of known the process from talking to my local LCS guys, but it's great information to have out there for people so they understand how important it is to go get their stuff--AND to understand if they're getting out of comics they have to let their guy know and commit to at least the stuff they've already ordered!
Congrats on 5K, Russ and Ryan! You’re a big part of the magic! ✨
I ordered Riptide #2 with a discount.
Cant be ComicTom without Tom 😣...seriously tho, good video fellas.
Bro I want some Dharma initiative food boxes in my pantry lol it's like government surplus food packaging lol love the shirt
Great episode guys! It was very informative. Congrats on 5k!!
You guys need a podcast I can listen to guy talk about comics for a while always interesting
Great truthful information from a comic store owner. Thank you!
What!?? New Avengers is so good! Jason Aaron is killing it!
Didn't Say it wasn't good, but IMHO with comics at $3.99, $4.99 and up, people are being selective about what they buy. It's a good read. We like Jason Aaron, but People are definitely holding back on how many comics they buy every month
@@MillGeekComics I guess I'm just surprised not everyone is on Avengers. I myslef have been starting to cut back because there has been so much lately but this Avengers run is a must have in the pull. It's cool you replied back, thanks Russ!
Henceforth you shall only be addressed as king potentate of comic book land
Love comic conversation! You guys rock!
Thanks for all the info. I am actually taking that leap of faith and opening my own Comic Shop. It’s great hearing how you run your business. Trying to figure out what new comics to order seems to be one of the more challenging things I will deal with.
Good luck! It's a super tough business! Feel free to e-mail me directly and I will see if I can help a little. I have never been more spiritually rich and financially poor :)
thats why it is hard to stay off comic stores online. i can just go on there and pick what i want. if i find out late that something is good, its too late to get it from my local. great video guys. i will always go to my LCS first, but diamond and low sales isn't helping
I would kill to have a comic shop like this near me I have tried both of my local shops and they are always messing up my pull list or just not pulling books for me at all love your guys channel keep up the good work
Omg I’ve always asked myself this! Of course going to be another great video to sit through!👍👌
Thanks for the video, a topic I've always been curious about
Some day I hope theres a documentary about the Rise And Fall of The Comic Stop.
Good job guys, thanks for all that knowledge!
I had to ask my LCS guy and said the worst customer was one that would wait til he got his taxes and then would pick up all his books, but taking a gamble hoping he would come back at end of the year.
It's insane 🤣😂 how I'm just seeing this wish i found all of you guy when this video released!!!
Look how far you guys have came but this helps me out a lot for one day I'll have a comic book shop. 🤙🏽🤙🏽🍻🍻🔥🔥🔥🔥
Anyone who thinks running a comic shop business is easy and fun should listen to Russ. Informative video what a comic shop owner has to go through!
Keep up the great work guys😀
interesting stuff thank you for that insight chaps!
This was a great video, thank you for sharing!
Russ since coming back to collecting and living in a new city how can I address getting variants for comics that I love
One of the things my LCS does is bundle runs of a title for a reduced price. My LCS guy discovered it's easier to sell a collected run of a title for a discounted price as opposed to selling them as singles in a discount bin. It's easier to sell "New 52 Batwing" issues 1-25 as a bundle for $19.99 which saves the customer from wasting time having to flip through the discount bin looking for singles hoping to get a complete run.
You guys are constantly putting out great info and I love it! As someone that works in a comic shop I really appreciate this kind of content for those that don’t think about things this way. Another awesome video! Congrats on 5K! 🖤💥
This is like that book “Why do men have nipples and other questions you’re too afraid to ask your doctor”
Can you talk about the best way to ensure, as a customer, you get ratio variants? My shop never seems to get them so I don’t bother asking for them unless it’s an open to order type thing.
Kyle Carson . I find you have to strike up a conversation and maybe build a relationship with your LCS. This relationship can help you find out if they are bringing in a variant, or you can ask them to bring it in, and it can also put you first on the list. If it's a ratio variant, you will undoubtedly have to pay extra.
Best part of my night is watching new Comic Tom vids, even if there's no Tom.
Great info guys...wow.
"Comic courtesy": a new term because I misheard Fireguy at the end. Also, my question is kind of mirrored in some of the other comments but; how are such good finds found in "dollar bins", in a LCS, when the knowledge of those within can obviously determine what is valuable enough to NOT be in the dollar bin? Or are these issues, keys etc found elsewhere like HPBooks?
I'm so fascinated with the experience and culture of owning a comic book store. It's a dream of mine, but I think I would prefer spending my time at the dollar bin building up my collections rather than stressing over on bills and keeping the store afloat. There should be a sitcom specifically on running a comic shop, without the unnecessary 00s drama that you see in most shows.
I wish you’d guys do a part two of this, but sort of a prequel where starting a comic shop business (the money, showcase/shelving, and material needs). Might be boring or tedious, but I doubt that.
Really enjoyed this video! Would love to see more videos like this where you guys talk about owning a comic book shop and what its like to run one! How did you come to having a shop?
Tom and I talked about this in one of the EARLY videos but I think Ryan and I can do a followup on this one, no problem!
Great video as always
I will take one of the 1/50 variants for Detective comics 1000 pretty please. Os it to soon to reserve that :D
Insightful vid, thanks
huh. Funny... i live in lake stevens washington.
I've always wondered
Back during the pre and post blackest night run I had my LCS order green lantern and green lantern corps, however they would throw in other green lantern titles. Most of the time I just bought them. So my question to you is do you think shops do that to get rid of inventory/sell a less popular title?
I think DC/Marvel does that and not necessarily the shop. Blackest night had like 53 offshoots and that was DC's attempt to sell you the less popular titles. The shops may order the things they feel are necessary to the storyline but a lot of us have scaled back on buying those things...
How many new comics arrive damaged each week?
I had 687 comics arrive this week, we had 56 damaged INCLUDING a cgc 9.8 doomsday clock #1 (dynamic forces, cracked case... Ugh...)
Russ Bright wow that sucks
@@johnnyfuture3524 the worst part is when it's a BIG BOOK and it goes out of stock... My copies come damaged and I can't get replacement copies.
@@MillGeekComics it keeps the customer away from buying it, even though they want it. Diamond is known for sending books and getting damaged. But they dont seem to care much because the store owner is still stuck with the bill.
@@johnnyfuture3524 we have a large amount of shops in the area, so most will just drive ten minutes to the nearest comic shop. It's really bad when everyone in the Seattle area has the same "bad batch"
Informative
Well, this is different!
Anyone read junior high horrors #1??? Pretty cool book and thank you guys for showcasing it, I had to check it out after your cbsi video.
Wasup Peeps
Hate how Marvel re-launches titles with 30 different covers! Not cool for me the consumer, not cool for you guys the shop owners! Can be a scary game...
concrats on 5k.
Does anyone know where the Spider-Man artwork in the back is from?
Can you explain variants , I’ve heard that sometimes you have order different title to get variant from another comic is that true
I have about 15 boxes of back issues from 2000-2015 ..what the best way to go about selling it ?
Another great episode. What do you think about people who has a pull list and can only pick up once a month. My lcs let's me pick up my comics monthly because due to health reasons I can only get by once a month. Does it hurt in any way. I never miss a month to get by and pick them up. Thanks
Communication is key! As long as you let me know I am good with it!
I am a believer in communication and telling the truth. My word is who I am. Thanks for the response
From my experience talking to a few different shop owners in my area, I agree with Russ. As long as you communicate with the LCS, and they are good with the arrangement, the customer actually picks it up, then there isn't a problem.
I actually pickup once a month with my local shop, and have on occasion told them I was going to be an extra month late, and they were fine with it.
Has ebay and other online selling made it so it is harder for the LCS to carry the cool old books than it was 20 years ago?
Yes AND no - More to come with this answer
Do comic shop owners buy new books at 50% of the cover price? Also, does it get cheaper per book if you buy more quantity or does it stay the same regardless of how many you buy? Thanks great video guys 👍👍
Just Wilder The mark-up is usually around 50% and it may be slightly higher if the shop’s monthly orders reach a high enough quantity per the publishers requirement. It’s also important to note that shipping cost is not included in the base mark-up.
thanks tazz 👍👍
👍
What store does Russ run
Ryan: cool T
But how does Wal Mart order the 100 page giants
Direct deal with DC. Nobody but Wal-Mart can order them.
If only Ryan stop mumbling this would be a good episode ...
My parents have been telling me that my entire life! I'm a classic mumbler. They'll write that on my tombstone: HERE LIES RYAN. WE BARELY HEARD YE.
Still getting Avengers here.How terrible is is to say, oh sorry that comic book you put in my box, I know it was on my Previews order, but I don’t want it anymore?
Shops have to pay for EVERY COMIC on their wall when it gets here. If you know you want to cancel a title, let them know ASAP. If you stop to pick up your box and don't buy it that day you have already lost the shop money. That's why a lot of shops go out of business. Customers don't understand that I have to write a check between $1200-2k per week and am already starting Wednesday over a grand in the hole...
Thanks for being a store that has backissues, im not a fan of diamond stores.
where's tom!!! Love you guys too but cmon man hahah.
Tom is behind the camera
@@MillGeekComics hahah I'll take it. congrats on 5k fellas. can't wait for tomorrow's vid
I guess you have more experience cause this video is old
Ryan, dude -- stop the whisper.