Comics fair exhibitors expect boost in sales

Exhibitors at the media preview for Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong on Thursday said they expect an increase in sales this year, as the fair coincides with the release of this summer's Hollywood blockbusters. The annual event runs for five days from Friday, about the same time as the premiere of "Deadpool & Wolverine" and Disney's "Inside Out 2" in the SAR. Around 142 exhibitors will participate in the event. One of them, Chow, whose stall featured a statue of Deadpool, along with figures, hats, stickers and plushies, said they expect a 30 percent jump in sales this year. Another stall owner, Ho, told RTHK they will roll out products related to the Transformers franchise. "This is the 40th anniversary for Transformers so we have some highlighted products for Transformers. Also for Marvel, this year is the 85th anniversary for Marvel Comics, so we also have a list of products to sell at this event," Ho said. Cosplayers dressed as Iron Man, the Hulk, and Jedi from the Star Wars franchise were also enjoying the atmosphere at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai as they posed for pictures. Tickets are priced at HK$42 for adults and HK$20 for children aged 3 to 11. Visitors are required to purchase their tickets via the organiser’s mobile application or at convenience stores. Over-the-counter tickets will only be available to international tourists.