L.E. Becker of WARP 9 in Clawson, Michigan comments on Marvel's short notice decision to allow Fantastic Four #587 to be sold a day early as well as the AP breaking the story (see "AP Story Spoils 'Fantastic Four' Surprise").

Although I applaud Marvel's decision to let us sell Fantastic Four #587 on Tuesday, it would have been nice to let us know a few weeks or so ahead of time.  For a month leading up to the big issue, we told everyone that the book would be on sale Wednesday, 1/26.  Marvel sent out a memo (via Diamond) stating that we could sell the issue on Tuesday if we wished.  The problem being is that the memo was sent out the Friday before.  We had no choice but to honor our commitment to our customers and sell it on Wednesday.  We had a few grumblings ("Marvel said it would be on sale today"), but most came back the next day.  In fact, many were happy we waited and honored our Wednesday commitment.

On the flip side, all of the hubbub about the AP releasing the story early... well, the stores in England get their books on Tuesday like many of us (except they are almost one day ahead of us).  The news would have broken either way.  I just wish the "preview" variant had come out the same week.  What's the point of having a surprise image to be released if Marvel uses it as its news shot?

Just my 2-cents.

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