The two companies will operate under the same roof as separate entities, Karch told XBiz.
“It’s the next logical step for us,” he said. “We have the infrastructure already in place with Empire—sales force, warehouse space, shipping capabilities and industry relationships. Now it’s just a matter of acquiring product that is up to the highest standards.”
Taking a queue from such companies as Evil Angel and Red Light District, Epic Interactive will focus heavily on purchasing finished movies from directors, either for a flat fee or on a percentage-split basis.
“It’s a great idea for directors who are tired of doing the selling themselves,” Karch told XBiz. “Most directors are artists, not businessmen. I’m a businessman, not an artist. This way, they can concentrate on making movies.”
Former VCA salesman Ed Kail will head up Epic’s sales team as national sales manager while Adam Jay will oversee production and marketing in his position as executive vice president.
“Empire Video Distributors is like a family, and that’s the same atmosphere I plan to foster with Epic,” Karch said. “I want this company to be a place where working directors can come to feel safe and taken care of, both creatively and financially. It’s the only way I know how to do business.”
