Wizards of the Coast has announced that it will begin allowing Core Level Wizards Play Network retailers to receive and release Dungeons & Dragons products 11 days prior to the scheduled release date.  The new early release program will begin in March with D&D Player’s Handbook 3. 

Qualifying stores may either order direct or through a Wizards Authorized Hobby Distributor.  The program will not include miniatures, board games, novels, and 3 Dragon Ante.  

WotC president Greg Leeds explained the rationale.  “Wizards is committed to supporting core hobby stores who are essential to building the gaming community,” he said.  “We’re very pleased to bring this reward to those stores.”