Comic enthusiasts in Romford were thrilled to see the revival of a beloved comic shop by a retired enthusiast, Jason Rutland. After a brief retirement of just five months, Jason decided to bring back his shop, now named Comic Box, to the Romford Shopping Hall. The shop, previously known as Comic Book Heroes and later relocated to The Quadrant, has now returned to its roots, much to the delight of the loyal customers who have supported Jason over the years.
Jason Rutland, at the age of 57, made the decision to retire from his beloved comic shop, Comic Book Heroes, earlier this year in February. However, retirement didn’t sit well with Jason, who quickly found himself feeling bored and restless after just five months of being away from the comic book world. He expressed his sentiments, stating, “After sitting in my house for the last five months, watching TV and eating everything out of the fridge – there’s only so much TV you can watch – I was like ‘I’ve got to do something’.” With his extensive knowledge of the comic book trade, Jason felt compelled to return to the world of comics and revive his shop once again.
Upon reopening Comic Box, Jason was pleasantly surprised by the warm reception he received from both old and new customers. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “We’ve changed our name but we have the same customers, the same people know we are here. They’ve all come back again, which is really lovely.” The familiar faces that have returned to support Jason and his shop have made the comeback even more special for him.
Focus on Classic Comics
Jason’s vision for Comic Box was to create a space that solely focuses on classic comic books, pre-owned graphic novels, and DVDs. Unlike his previous shop, where he also sold action figures and collectibles, Jason wanted Comic Box to be dedicated to the reading material itself. This decision was met with enthusiasm from customers who appreciate the emphasis on classic comics and a wide selection of graphic novels and DVDs.
The shop’s collection includes all the classic comics, graphic novels, manga, and DVDs that any comic enthusiast would love to explore. Jason’s commitment to providing a diverse range of reading material reflects his passion for the comic book world and his desire to cater to the interests of his customers. The shop’s offerings are not only appealing to longtime comic fans but also attract new readers who are eager to discover the magic of comic books.
Community Engagement and Events
In addition to offering a wide selection of comics and graphic novels, Comic Box is actively engaging with the community through various initiatives. Jason has taken steps to connect with customers on social media platforms like TikTok, where he shares updates, recommendations, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the shop. This digital presence helps foster a sense of community and allows customers to stay connected with the shop even outside of its physical location.
Looking ahead, Jason is planning to host a cosplay day in the autumn, inviting enthusiasts to showcase their favorite comic book characters and engage in a day of fun and creativity. This event is expected to bring together comic fans of all ages and create a vibrant and inclusive space for celebrating the comic book culture. By organizing such events, Comic Box is not only promoting a love for comic books but also building a strong community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the art form.
As Comic Box continues to thrive in its new iteration, Jason remains grateful for the overwhelming support he has received from customers, both old and new. He cherishes the interactions he has with visitors to the shop, sharing a laugh and discussing all things comics with fellow enthusiasts. Jason expressed his appreciation, saying, “You get lots of people coming in, and you can have a chat about it all, and talk about all the stuff that they are interested in because it’s the same interests as me.” The camaraderie and sense of connection that Comic Box fosters make it a welcoming and enjoyable space for all who visit.
In conclusion, the revival of Comic Box by Jason Rutland is a testament to the enduring appeal of comic books and the dedication of enthusiasts to share their passion with others. Through his commitment to providing a diverse selection of comics, engaging with the community, and hosting events, Jason has created a space that not only celebrates the art form but also brings people together. As Comic Box continues to grow and evolve, it serves as a beacon for comic fans in Romford and beyond, offering a haven for those who share a love for the colorful and captivating world of comic books.