Chapter 230: Post-War Material Sale Expo

Martin Goodman, originally a magazine editor, had transitioned into the comics industry by founding a small company. His approach was straightforward: if a work gained popularity, it would be lucrative. Marvel, his company, often followed in the footsteps of DC Comics, imitating their successful models.

Stan Lee, Goodman's cousin by marriage, joined the company as a young man. At the time, Marvel was known as "Atlas Comics" and hadn't yet adopted the Marvel name. When World War II began, Lee entered the army, where he drew illustrations for propaganda rather than engaging in combat. Upon returning, he rose to the position of editor-in-chief and chief writer at Marvel.

Hardy knew that Stan Lee was the creative force behind Marvel and was determined to retain him, regardless of Goodman's role.

"I want to buy your comics company. What do you think?" Hardy proposed to Goodman.

"Are you looking to invest capital, or do you want to buy the entire company?" Goodman inquired.

"Purchase a majority of the equity. You can retain a stake and continue managing the company. Mr. Stan Lee will remain as the editor-in-chief," Hardy clarified.

Goodman was relieved by this proposal. Atlas, at that time, was a medium-sized comics company with over 40 employees, annual sales of over a million dollars, and profits exceeding 100,000 dollars. Goodman aspired for Marvel to grow and possibly have its characters featured on the big screen.

Goodman was surprised by Hardy's interest. The Hardy Group's expansion into media—through ABC TV, HD Pictures, Global Times, Playboy Magazine, and the newly launched "Reader" magazine—indicated a broad and ambitious media empire.

"Mr. Hardy, how many shares do you plan to acquire?" Goodman asked.

Hardy had a clear plan. "I aim to purchase more than 80% of the shares. You can retain 20%, with 5% of the management shares and 5% dividend shares going to Mr. Stan Lee."

Stan Lee was taken aback by the offer.

"Of course, dividends are part of the deal," Hardy assured him.

Lee was visibly excited by the prospect. Hardy then turned to Goodman. "What's your valuation of the company?"

Goodman estimated Atlas to be worth 1.5 million dollars. Hardy, having conducted a professional valuation, countered, "Your company is worth at most 800,000 dollars. While DC Comics boasts numerous well-known characters, Marvel has fewer standout figures."

Goodman was slightly embarrassed but conceded that this was accurate.

"One million dollars, and we have a deal," Goodman insisted.

Hardy agreed. "Fine, one million dollars for 80% of the shares."

The negotiation was straightforward, and both parties agreed to the terms. The Hardy Group's legal team quickly drafted an acquisition contract. Goodman was impressed by the efficiency of the process.

"Originally, I thought this would involve multiple rounds of negotiation. It's remarkable how smoothly it went," Goodman remarked.

Andy, who was present, added, "For a million-dollar acquisition, there's no need for lengthy negotiations. Mr. Hardy is decisive and efficient. The time saved might even recoup the additional cost."

Stan Lee admired Hardy's approach, noting that Hardy, just a year older than him, already had a significant net worth.

After signing the acquisition and management equity dividend agreements, Stan Lee was particularly thrilled. The agreement ensured he would receive equity dividends as long as he remained with Marvel.

Hardy then outlined his plans for the company. "First, we'll change the company name from Atlas to 'Marvelorgics'. It's a more fitting name."

Goodman and Lee agreed that "Marvelorgics" was a fitting choice.

"Second, I want to adapt 'Captain America' into a TV series. I'll assign the screenwriters from HD Pictures to this project. Stan Lee, as Marvel's editor-in-chief, you'll join the team as well," Hardy announced.

Both Goodman and Stan Lee were excited about the opportunity. Although it was just a TV series, they saw it as a step toward future film adaptations.

"Alright, I'll cooperate with the screenwriters and contribute my ideas," Stan Lee responded.

Hardy emphasized, "You're not just cooperating—you'll be one of the main screenwriters. I expect you to bring your creativity to the project."

Stan Lee was enthusiastic about this recognition and responsibility.

"Third, we need to improve our publishing output. Currently, Marvel sells about 100,000 copies per month, which isn't enough. We should create more Marvel characters and focus on quality. Recruit more editors and artists, and consider soliciting contributions from the public. Work closely with the HD screenwriter team to enhance our storytelling," Hardy advised.

Goodman and Lee nodded in agreement.

"Fourth, I recommend relocating the main office from New York to Los Angeles. Hollywood's proximity will benefit our production efforts. New York can serve as a branch office. We can make this transition over the next one or two years," Hardy suggested.

Goodman and Lee prepared to leave. Before they did, Hardy gave Stan Lee a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

"This is Captain America's motorcycle. In the story, it's an important prop alongside his shield," Hardy explained.

Stan Lee was thrilled with the gift and expressed his gratitude.

As Hardy watched them depart, he reflected on his other business interests. He had instructed Andy to pursue acquiring Harley-Davidson Motors, but progress had been slow. Harley Motors, the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S., was still thriving despite the lack of military orders.

"Discuss acquiring the rights to their military model instead," Hardy instructed.

Business dealings often involved compromises, but Hardy was confident in his ability to generate revenue from various ventures.

Hardy then contacted Colonel Adam Beach to discuss organizing a large-scale "Post-War Material Sale Expo."

Colonel Beach was puzzled. "Mr. Hardy, what does this expo entail?"

"It's essentially a warehouse sale of various surplus materials from the war. We'll showcase these materials and invite buyers to purchase them in bulk. This way, we'll attract dealers who specialize in second-hand goods," Hardy explained.

Colonel Beach understood and agreed to handle the logistics, including allocating supplies and preparing the venue.

A week later, the Nevada Armory was featured in an advertisement broadcasted by the TV station. The expo promised to offer a wide range of materials from World War II, available at reserve prices. The Global Times also printed a comprehensive list of materials, generating significant interest among potential buyers.

The exposition was set to draw numerous merchants eager to acquire surplus military goods and other materials, anticipating lucrative opportunities in this unique sale.