Partners And Son in Philadelphia is a unique blend of comic shop and art gallery. Founded in 2019 by partners Gina Dawson and Tom Marquet, the store quickly became a hub for the local comics community. This article delves into the history of Partners and Son, their business model, and their perspective on the comics industry.
From Brooklyn to Philly: Merging Art and Comics
Gina and Tom relocated from Brooklyn with a vision to combine their passions for contemporary art and independent comics. This led to the creation of Partners and Son, a hybrid space that offers a curated selection of comics and hosts art exhibitions.
alt text: interior of partners and son comic shop with bookshelves and art on the walls
Initially, the gallery space was prominent, but they soon realized that positioning the bookshop at the front made the business more accessible to passersby. This shift, along with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, shaped the store’s evolution.
Navigating the Pandemic and Evolving the Business Model
The pandemic forced Partners and Son to adapt. Gina developed a robust online presence, photographing and listing their entire inventory on their website. This move proved crucial for survival and continues to be a significant part of their business. The experience also taught them the importance of online sales and broadened their reach beyond their physical location.
alt text: Exterior of Partners and Son comic shop in Philadelphia
Furthermore, they learned to curate their stock based on customer demand and feedback, expanding beyond their initial personal preferences. This collaborative approach helped them connect with their audience and discover new artists and publishers.
Curating Comics and Engaging with the Community
Partners and Son prioritizes a diverse selection of comics, from established publishers like Fantagraphics and Drawn & Quarterly to smaller independent creators. They attend comic conventions, engage with their online community, and rely on customer recommendations to discover new talent and stay abreast of industry trends. This ensures a fresh and engaging inventory that caters to a wide range of tastes.
They also actively participate in the local comics scene, sponsoring and organizing the Philly Comics Expo. This event provides a platform for local artists and fosters a sense of community among comic enthusiasts.
The Future of Comics Retail
Partners and Son embodies a shift in the comics industry. They see a growing acceptance of comics as a mainstream hobby, fueled by a generation of children raised reading comics. This normalization, coupled with the rise of diverse voices and formats in independent comics, points to a bright future for the industry.
alt text: Owners of Partners and Son, Gina and Tom
Partners and Son remains optimistic about the future, embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with running a small, independent business. Their commitment to community, curated selection, and adaptability positions them as a key player in the evolving landscape of comics retail.
