Kadokawa, now a Sony Group subsidiary, sets ambitious publishing goals. Aiming for 9,000 original IP publications annually by fiscal year 2027, this represents a 50% increase from their 2023 output.
This aggressive expansion follows Sony's acquisition of a 10% stake, making them Kadokawa's largest shareholder. President Takeshi Natsuno, in an interview with Nikkei, outlined a plan to leverage Sony's global distribution network for international market penetration. A medium-term plan projects 7,000 titles by fiscal 2025.
To support this growth, Kadokawa plans to increase its editorial staff by 40%, reaching approximately 1,000 employees. This strategic expansion aims for efficiency and sustainable growth.
Kadokawa's strategy includes a "media mix" approach, expanding its IPs through anime and game adaptations. Natsuno emphasized the goal of creating a system where diverse content leads to significant successes.
This collaboration benefits Sony significantly, particularly Crunchyroll, its anime streaming service with over 15 million subscribers. The partnership will expand Crunchyroll's anime library with Kadokawa's extensive IP portfolio, including titles like Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, and The Rising of the Shield Hero. Sony's interest in multimedia expansion, including live-action adaptations and international distribution, further strengthens the synergy.
The partnership promises significant growth for both companies, leveraging Kadokawa's IP strength and Sony's global reach.
