Jason Rutland, owner of ‘Comic Book Heroes’, has created a welcoming haven for all enthusiasts of the world of comic books, graphic novels, and collectibles. By breaking the norm for comic book shops having a silent, sterile environment, he has turned his shop into a place where people can pop in, have a chat about the things they love, and buy some merchandise from their favourite sci-fi series. He has music and televisions constantly playing in the background to help achieve this inviting and vibrant atmosphere.

Starting out in a small shop in Upminster around four years ago, Jason and his son Brandon have worked together with specialists to ensure their stock is authentic and high quality. When asked how he came up with the name for the shop, Jason said that he had gone over hundreds of possible names with friends and family, and “Comic Book Heroes” felt right. He wanted to include a sense of modernity, as when he was growing up, they were just called ‘comics’, however in the last decade or so they have begun to be known as ‘comic books’ – the inclusion of current terminology shows how he is inclusive of all fans, not just those of his generation.

The business started out on a budget, yet as they grew more successful, they were able to get better stock, and eventually move to a more high-profile location in the Quadrant Arcade, Romford. With the new shop, Rutland found he was able to house more comics and collectibles, have more space to create dynamic displays, and continue to create an amazing community. Not only did he get a good deal when buying the shop, but he is also good friends with the retro games shop next door, and with other comic book shops in the area, thus adding to the community he has created.

However, not long after relocating, COVID struck and Rutland was forced to close his shop from November 2020 until April 2021, while still having to pay rent for the premises. This proved to be difficult, especially after being able to open again and having to implement government-issued rules for social distancing in a shop that was intended to feel welcoming and warm. Yet despite this, he never wavered and is continuing to work every day to ensure his business’s success and longevity; any money made goes back into care for the shop.

“I’ve wanted to own a comic book shop since I was a kid” says Jason, acting as an example that we can achieve what we aim to so long as we stick to it. So head down to Romford, pop in for a chat and check out some incredible comics and collectibles.

You can find them on their Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/comicbookheroes.co.uk/