Simon & Schuster has begun distribution to the book market of UDON Entertainment, which previously had a book market distribution arrangement with Diamond Book Distributors. Simon & Schuster is handling new releases and backlist titles for all UDON books for the book trade worldwide (where licenses permit). For comic book specialty retailers, aka the direct market, UDON Entertainment titles will also be available through Lunar Distribution, Universal Distribution, and Diamond Comics Distribution.
UDON Entertainment publishes art books, manga, and graphic novels, featuring some of the most iconic properties in gaming, anime, and pop culture, including Street Fighter, Mega Man, Monster Hunter, Persona, Elden Ring, Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Evangelion, The Rose of Versailles, Fate, Atelier Ryza, Manga Biographies, and many more.
UDON chief of operations Erik Ko said, "With this new partnership we are aiming to enhance the availability and accessibility of our many titles, to ensure readers can easily find their favorite UDON books on bookstore shelves. We would also like to thank Diamond Book Distributors and their hardworking crew for all of the support they have offered us for the past 20 years, helping us secure a solid footing in the book market."
Michael Perlman, senior v-p of Simon & Schuster Publishing Services, said, "We're delighted to be working with UDON Entertainment to expand their reach and connect with more consumers around the world."