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This trend suggests a declining interest in the traditional direct market comics but an increasing appetite for manga and graphic novels, which are often sold through bookstores, online retailers like Amazon, and big-box stores like Walmart. These formats are gaining popularity—and with good reason. Their diverse genres, appealing art styles, and greater availability are attracting new readers, especially younger audiences.
However, the comic book industry’s traditional model—dominated by the direct market—may be nearing its end. The decline of comics in major brick-and-mortar stores, coupled with layoffs and closures at places like Barnes & Noble (which laid off their dedicated graphic novel buyer), further emphasizes the shrinking footprint of traditional comic shops.