Sanrio Co. posted record-breaking financial results for fiscal 2025, with net income more than doubling as Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary celebrations and a surge in foreign tourists boosted the company’s performance.
The Tokyo-based character goods maker reported a 137% jump in net income to ¥41.7 billion ($278 million) for the year ended March 31, while operating profit soared 92.2% to ¥51.8 billion. Revenue climbed 44.9% to ¥144 billion, according to a statement Tuesday.
The robust performance was driven by Sanrio’s successful multi-character strategy, with newer icons like Kuromi and Cinnamoroll gaining popularity alongside the company’s flagship Hello Kitty brand. A special exhibition at Tokyo National Museum attracted 350,000 visitors during its four-month run through February, highlighting the enduring appeal of the company’s intellectual property.
Foreign tourism has been a key growth driver, with inbound visitors flocking to Sanrio’s domestic stores and theme parks. The company’s digital initiatives, including its YouTube channel with over 3 million subscribers, have helped expand its global reach.
For fiscal 2026, Sanrio forecasts sales to increase 19.7% to ¥162.2 billion and operating profit to rise 16.6% to ¥27.5 billion. However, net income is expected to show minimal growth at just 0.1% higher than the current year.
The company’s membership service, Sanrio+, has accumulated approximately 2.52 million users, indicating growing consumer engagement beyond traditional retail channels.
