A package distribution line in a factory. The name "Alliance Game Distributors" is visible on a box on the belt in black letterss.

Parent Company of Alliance Game Distributors Files For Bankruptcy

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Published: January 14, 2025 4:44 PM

Recently, the business side of the tabletop industry underwent a massive shake-up. Diamond Comic Distributors, the parent company of Alliance Game Distributors, filed for bankruptcy. This may impact the future of physical tabletop game supply.

The Alliance Game Distributors Bankruptcy Announcement

According to an official press release on their website, Diamond Comic Distributors has filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code.

A factory floor filled with sealed cardboard boxes

As part of this filing, they have received $41 million in DIP financing from JP Morgan Chase. This money will go towards operating expenses and working capital to meet obligations with various associates and suppliers. This means this filing shouldn't affect any pre-existing shipping agreements they've had with distributors.

In addition, the report mentions a bid to purchase Alliance Game Distributors, a $39 million stalking horse bet by Canadian shipping company Universal Distribution. Alongside this bid is a signed non-binding letter by the company of intent to purchase Diamond UK. Naturally, this deal isn't set in stone, another company can up the bid, but $39 million is the current floor.

“Universal Distribution is looking forward to working with the Alliance and Diamond UK teams to bring a stronger balance sheet and growth opportunities to retailers and suppliers. Both companies have deep roots in the industry, and we look forward to continuing that into the future,” said Angelo Exarhakos, President and CEO of Universal. 

This is major since Alliance Game Distributors is one of the tentpole distribution companies in the tabletop industry. Providing over 250 vendors board games, miniatures, TTRPGs, and gaming accessories worldwide. The company even published a tabletop consumer guide, Game Trade Magazine.

A screenshot of several covers of Game Trade Magazine. The covers show colorful animals in fantasy wardrobe, a bunch of Marvel comics characters, and a giant bipedal mech on a battlefield

Their closest contemporary within the tabletop business is another giant, Asmodee Group.

Alliance Game Distributors isn't the only one of Diamond's businesses up for sale. Other units up for sale are Diamond Book Distributors, Collectible Grading Authority, DIamond Select Toys, and the company's main toy, comic book, and collectible distribution lines.

If the purchase of Alliance Game Distributors goes through, Universal may be primed to be a new big name within the tabletop industry.

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| Staff Writer

Ever since he was small, Tyler Chancey has had a deep, abiding love for video games and a tendency to think and overanalyze everything he enjoyed. This… More about Tyler