Devlin Thompson was the manager of Bizarro-Wuxtry comic book store for more than 30 years. Now, he’s opened his own shop.
“I’ve got temperature control, free parking, accessible restrooms,” Thompson said. “It’s everything I never had.”
Bizarro Comics opened up last week on West Broad Street. It’s a humble store as of now with just a couple hundred comic books, toys and movies lining the walls.
Thompson decided to leave Bizarro-Wuxtry in downtown Athens after new buyers purchased the building this summer. The store is expected to officially cease operations this fall.
But in his new standalone store, business has already been picking up. In the first two weeks, Thompson has seen a mix of regular customers from his previous venture and new comic book fans.
“We’re getting a ton of community support which is heartening,” Thompson said. “People seem to be getting the word out and getting over here.”
Bizarro Comics is slowly ramping up its selection and is currently open from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Thompson hopes to eventually create the same vibe that customers came to love for several decades.
“We’re filling in back issues,” Thompson said. “I’m essentially starting from scratch, so it’s taken a minute, but I know where to get stuff.”
