James Arlemagne of Fantasy Realms in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, saw the news about Days of Wonder going exclusive with Diamond-Alliance (see “Days of Wonder Goes Exclusive”) and says that he “tends to supports some exclusive agreements:”

I've read the many comments from retailers on why exclusivity agreements are bad for both individual stores and the industry.  Although I understand and accept the points, I tend to support some exclusivity agreements.  Alliance and DoW make the point of better distributor stock levels, healthier companies, better marketing potential; all relevant in a small and somewhat stagnant American market.  Exclusive distribution means a tight range of wholesale cost.  This reduces my competitive risk from Internet vendors.  A small niche product line like Days of Wonder encourages me to develop a full-line inventory with this agreement.  So as some stores "boycott" the line, I will be promoting it for reducing competitive risk. 

I am aware of the downfalls of industry monopolization, but some manufacturing companies working exclusively with different distributors makes both manufacturers and distributors healthier.  The diversity and strength of both provides a stronger foundation for my retail game business and the industry as a whole.

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