Startup digital comics marketplace and reader Omnibus is to close its doors as it continues to struggle in the wake of the staggered death of Comixology. The app has been removed from iOS and Android marketplaces.

In a message posted within the Omnibus app and on their website, the company stated the reason behind this decision:

“We aren’t growing fast enough and would require a significant amount of external funding to proceed and become sustainable. This is a tough business to achieve that within the current landscape.”

According to Omnibus, users who have spent more than $100 within the service can request a refund and can download PDF backups of their books (publishers permitting). Users will still be able to access their books until August 21.

Omnibus was one of the hopeful successors that emerged in the wake of Amazon’s decision to force the Comixology app into its Kindle ecosystem and service starting in 2022. A public relations disaster, jaded publishers and readers were actively looking for the next big thing and Omnibus and GlobalComix were two potentials eager to fill the gap.

Kenny Meyers and Travis Schmeisser launched the Omnibus App in May last year. Offering a download or streaming digital experience, including DRM-free access where made available by the publisher. The return of In-App purchases, something Amazon was quick to remove after their purchase of Comixology, as well as a notification system to allow readers to follow individual creators and characters, including recommended reading lists and chronologies across different titles. And launching with Vault Comics, Mad Cave Studios, Scout Comics, Ablaze, Boom Studios, Ahoy Comics, Valiant, Image Comics, Silver Sprocket, Black Panel Press and CEX.

Travis writes a thank you note as follows:

“I’d like to personally thank Ernest, Jon and Andrey, who helped create everything you’ve been using. We made a good run of it and moved quite a few mountains with a tiny team! I hope you all are as proud as I am.”

With more thanks to the following:

• The publishers that took a chance on us.
• The mind-blowingly talented creators whose work we sell.
• Chris and Aaron at the Oblivion Bar Podcast, our besties and brothers. Thanks for the positive vibes, friendship and funny text threads (Aaron, you’re a dirty bird).
• Brad and Lisa at Comic Book Couples Counseling have been integral to spreading the word.
• Lorelei at Image, thanks for being the first to give us a shot and all the advice and help!
• Finally, to our customers and fans: Thank you for supporting us! Your feedback, kind words and participation mean the world to us.

While the service seemed to be rapidly growing with each funding round – reportedly racking up over a million dollars in venture capital – the company hit a major roadblock earlier in December 2023 when Meyers left the company.

Meyers posted on LinkedIn:

“It’s with great sadness that I announce that Omnibus and I have parted ways. Omnibus was the dream for me, – a project I conceived, initiated and wholly dedicated myself to for the past 18 months. I was excited to bring the digital comic store to the next level for all comic lovers like me, especially with the dissolution of Comixology. Although the decision wasn’t mutual, I leave with tremendous pride in the many contributions I made to Omnibus in every aspect of the business.”

Navkiran Dhaliwal is a seasoned content writer with 10+ years of experience. When she’s not writing, she can be found cooking up a storm or spending time with her dog, Rain.