Editorial, Interview

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – The Comic Superheroes: When Childhood Dreams Become a Reality

What is the probable outcome when three comic geeks become acquainted in a comic sales forum where they speak about nothing except comics, their wish list, their bragging rights and aspirations? Well, the answer is the birth of Pink Ponk Comics. 

A EUREKA MOMENT

It all began with George, an avid comic book collector who had amassed a respectable client base and followers on his social media page over the years. He realised that collectors, both young and old, are frequently looking for older comics that could not be found in most comics shops in Singapore. Being a collector himself, he realised how frustrating it could be not being able to fill the gap in one’s collection. 

Furthermore, he understood collecting comics and toys required estate, and not many could afford the luxury of space, especially in one of the most expensive cities in the world. Some collectors wanted to offload their collections but had no means to do so. 

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE

Knowing two fellow comic aficionados who shared his aspiration of owning a comic book shop, George sent out a call and an ‘Avengers Assemble’ moment occurred in June 2020. After just a few meet-ups, it did not take long for the three geeks, George Chuang, Rajesh Dhanani and Eric Chong, to make their childhood dream a reality on 1st August 2020.

ONE OF A KIND COMIC STORE

Unlike most comic shops in Singapore which primarily sell the latest comics and toys, Pink Ponk Comics stands out as one that specialises in helping collectors to sell or buy their collections on a consignment basis. They help to source for comics that are hard to come by, for instance, old comics from the 1950s to late 1980s or specific issues, and to help collectors free up their estate by renting out storage space. 

Collectors can rent a space and sell their collections at the shop. These are not restricted to comics, as original art, prints, statues, cards, graded comics are also part of the collectables available at the shop.  

PRICING AND VALUE

Comics on sales range from as low as $1 for a single issue to high-value key comics like Incredible Hulk #181 (1st Appearance of Wolverine). To provide value-added services, Pink Ponk Comics markets their customers’ items through their Facebook and Instagram pages, various online platforms and through interaction with customers at the shop.

DRAWING THE BIG PICTURE

Many big plans are in the pipeline and on their drawing board, but the three guys seem to be content with the progress thus far. Accordingly, when the COVID-19 pandemic is over, they plan to roll out more specialised services to cater to their customers’ needs. 

Ultimately, they hope that Pink Ponk Comics will become the preferred place for collectors and aficionados, and be able to mesmerise a new generation of comics fans who enjoy reading, buying and selling comics.

Relive your childhood memories at Pink Ponk Comics.
Address: 1 Brooke Rd, B1-20, Singapore 429979
Website: www.pinkponkcomics.com