Kadokawa, now significantly backed by Sony Group, sets an ambitious goal: publishing 9,000 original IPs annually by fiscal year 2027. This represents a 50% increase over their 2023 output.
This aggressive expansion strategy follows Sony's acquisition of a 10% stake, making them Kadokawa's largest shareholder. Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno, in an interview with Nikkei, outlined a plan to leverage Sony's global distribution network to expand internationally. An interim target of 7,000 titles by fiscal 2025 is also projected.
To support this growth, Kadokawa plans to increase its editorial staff by 40%, reaching approximately 1,000 employees. This expansion aims to enhance efficiency and prevent staff burnout.
Kadokawa's strategy includes a "media mix" approach, adapting successful IPs into anime, games, and other media. Natsuno emphasized the goal of creating a system that fosters diversity and leads to major successes.
This collaboration benefits Sony significantly, particularly Crunchyroll, their anime streaming service with over 15 million subscribers. The partnership will expand Crunchyroll's anime library with Kadokawa's extensive IP portfolio, which includes 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 aligns with this strategic partnership.
