BANDAI NAMCO Holdings achieved a milestone in fiscal 2024, with consolidated sales surpassing the 1 trillion yen mark for the first time, reaching 1,050.2 billion yen. This represents significant growth from 990 billion yen the previous year, and more than doubling the combined sales of Bandai and Namco at the time of their merger in 2006.
Although sales hit a record high, operating and ordinary incomes saw substantial declines, dropping 22.1% and 18.2% respectively. The digital business particularly struggled, facing an 87.3% plummet in operating profits, primarily due to weak new online game launches and significant write-downs.
However, the company’s net income rose by 12.3% to 101,493 million yen, largely bolstered by extraordinary income from the sale of Toei Animation shares. This strategic sale added 41.1 billion yen to the income, helping to offset losses in other areas.
The Toys and Hobby sector was a standout performer, with revenues climbing 13.9% to 509.8 billion yen and operating profits surging by 32.1%. Popular franchises like Gundam and “ONE PIECE” contributed significantly to the growth, with strong sales in models, figures, and trading cards.
The Amusement business also reported gains, with sales up 14.4% and operating income increasing by 13.3%. Initiatives like “Bandai Namco Cross Store” and successful arcade games like “Mobile Suit Gundam Extreme Versus 2 Overboost” proved to be profitable.
While IP production in animation, video/music, and license management remained steady, the upcoming fiscal year looks promising with the anticipated recording of theatrical revenues from “Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM,” which is expected to be a substantial hit.
Looking forward, BANDAI NAMCO plans to continue its “IP axis strategy,” with significant investments aimed at maximizing IP value and developing the IP Metaverse, committing a total of 40 billion yen over the next three years. This strategy underlines the company’s commitment to leveraging its strong IP portfolio to drive future growth and innovation.
