Kadokawa Aims for 9,000 Original IP Publications Annually, Fueled by Sony Investment
Following a significant investment from Sony Group, acquiring 10% of its shares, Kadokawa Corporation has set an ambitious goal: publishing 9,000 original intellectual property (IP) titles annually by fiscal year 2027. This represents a 50% increase compared to their 2023 output.
Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno, in an interview with the Nikkei newspaper, outlined the plan. The company projects reaching 7,000 titles by fiscal year 2025, paving the way for their ultimate target. This expansion will leverage Sony's global distribution network to bring Kadokawa's IPs to a worldwide audience. To support this ambitious growth, Kadokawa plans to increase its editorial staff by 40%, aiming for a workforce of approximately 1,000.
Image From Kadokawa’s Official Website
A Media Mix Strategy for Enhanced IP Development
Kadokawa's strategy involves a "media mix" approach, expanding its IPs into anime and game adaptations. Natsuno emphasized the goal of creating a system where diversity leads to major successes. This partnership benefits Sony as well, particularly Crunchyroll, its anime streaming service with over 15 million paid subscribers. The collaboration will significantly enrich Crunchyroll's anime library with Kadokawa's extensive IP portfolio.
Kadokawa's impressive IP library includes titles like Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, The Rising of the Shield Hero, Delicious in Dungeon, and My Happy Marriage. Their portfolio also extends to popular video game IPs, such as Elden Ring, Dragon Quest, the Danganronpa series, and Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story, showcasing the breadth of their influence across the entertainment industry.
Sony's interest in expanding into multimedia entertainment aligns perfectly with Kadokawa's ambitions. Sony aims to increase its production of live-action adaptations and co-produce anime, further strengthening their global reach. This strategic partnership promises to reshape the landscape of Japanese multimedia entertainment.
