In a significant move, TV Asahi has solidified a capital and business alliance with Kotobukiya, a venerable manufacturer specializing in character figures and plastic models. As of December 13, 2023, TV Asahi will secure 1.06 million shares, representing 12.6% of Juya’s outstanding shares, in a transaction valued at approximately 1.925 billion yen.
The acquisition includes shares previously held by financial partners such as Tama Shinkin Bank, Seibu Shinkin Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Bank of Mitsubishi UFJ, Yamanashi Chuo Bank, and Ikkosha. While TV Asahi’s ownership percentage may seem modest at 12.6%, it catapults the broadcasting giant into the position of Juya’s largest shareholder, surpassing existing top shareholder Kazuyuki Shimizu and Tachihi Holdings.
Established in 1953, Kotobukiya boasts a 70-year history and evolved from crafting dolls and toys to producing high-quality plastic models and figures, gaining prominence in the late 1980s. With a focus on Japanese anime, games, and international franchises like Star Wars and Warner Bros., Kotobukiya has established a global presence, participating in major events such as Comic-Con. Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard Market in 2017, the company reported robust fiscal performance with sales reaching 18,099 million yen, operating income at 2,614 million yen, and net income totaling 1,757 million yen for the fiscal year ending June 2023.
The alliance with TV Asahi aims to propel Kotobukiya’s growth by leveraging the broadcaster’s expertise in media and broadcasting. The collaboration is poised to facilitate the creation and expansion of original intellectual property (IP) and the exploration of new business areas. TV Asahi stands to benefit from Kotobukiya’s proven prowess in product development, bolstering not only video production but also the secondary development of anime and characters.
Future plans for the alliance include joint development of original IP and content, commercialization, and media utilization of shared IP and content, exploration of new realms like the Metaverse, and fostering personnel exchanges. The partnership signifies a strategic synergy poised to shape the landscape of anime and character content creation and distribution.
