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New trade body launched to build UK into a ‘global comics superpower’
A new trade association, Comic Book UK, has been formed with the aim of driving growth in the UK comic book industry.
Beano publisher DC Thomson and Judge Dredd publisher Rebellion Entertainment are among Comic Book UK’s founding members, alongside graphic novel publisher Avery Hill Publishing and Bunny vs Monkey publisher The Phoenix Comic. The group also includes B7 Media – a drama production house that has launched a comic imprint – and startup Fable.
The move has been backed by Sir Chris Bryant, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and MP for Rhondda and Ogmore.
“With an edgy history from Punch to 2000 AD, British comics and cartooning entertain millions globally as part of our £11bn publishing sector, rightly earning their place and undeniable influence among the best of the UK’s creative industries,” Bryant said. “It is only right that comics have their own advocate to help champion and unlock more investment in this innovative sector. I look forward to working with Comic Book UK as we develop our plan to boost our growth-driving industries even further.”
New campaigns will focus on building recognition of UK comics as an export industry, and make the case for future investment. The group will also work with LICAF – the UK’s comic development agency – on programmes that highlight the social impact of comics and create new opportunities.
Mark Fuller, chief executive of Comic Book UK, said: “We have the creative talent and business base to become a global comics superpower, with UK companies growing and expanding their reach into new territories alongside inward investment from the huge North American, Asian Pacific and European comic industries.”
In its first year, the trade body will carry out research on the industry’s economic value, and advise on policy measures to de-risk growth initiatives by UK comic companies and promote international investment. The organisation will also participate in debates around the regulation of generative AI.
Further members of Comic Book UK, including a range of independent UK comic publishers, will be announced over the coming months.
