ICv2 has learned that CrossGen Comics has not provided comic distributor FM International with solicitation material for titles shipping in February.  In a statement to retailers accompanying its monthly Request Line Catalog, which has contained solicitations for CrossGen Comics since the publisher burst on to the scene almost three years ago, FM explained to its customers, 'Due to reasons beyond our control and described to us by CrossGen Entertainment as 'financial,' they either have, or will soon be, signing an exclusive deal with another distributor.'  Even if CrossGen does go exclusive, the publisher assured FM that the exclusivity agreement 'will in no way affect the books that have already been listed, and all orders that have been solicited will be filled.  All orders placed through December for January shipping product will be filled.'

 

When contacted by ICv2, a spokesperson for CrossGen refused to comment 'at this time.'  Industry insiders speculate that exclusivity might be the 'quid pro quo' that will allow CrossGen to attain 'premier' status with Diamond Comic Distributors (see 'Will CrossGen Get Premier Status').  While CrossGen has not yet made the move to the front of the December issue of Diamond's Previews catalog, the New Year could well bring about a change in that situation.  But what could be even more important to CrossGen than classier digs in Previews is the kind of brokerage deal that the other premier publishers have, which directly aids the bottom line by reducing the cost of distribution and also provides the publisher with the ability to deal directly with retailers on price promotions.