Sony's Kadokawa Investment Sparks Goal of 9000 Original IPs Per Year

Kadokawa's Ambitious Plan: 9,000 Original IPs Annually

Following a significant investment from the Sony Group, securing a 10% stake, Kadokawa Corporation has set a bold target: publishing 9,000 original intellectual properties (IPs) annually by fiscal year 2027. This represents a 50% increase over their 2023 output. Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno revealed this ambitious goal to the Nikkei newspaper.

This expansion strategy leverages Sony's global distribution network to broaden Kadokawa's international reach. The company's medium-term plan projects 7,000 titles by fiscal year 2025, demonstrating confidence in achieving their ultimate goal. To support this growth, Kadokawa plans to increase its editorial staff by 40%, aiming for a workforce of approximately 1,000.

This increased output will encompass a "media mix strategy," expanding existing IPs into anime, games, and other media. Natsuno emphasizes the goal of creating a diverse portfolio that fosters major successes. This synergistic approach benefits Sony as well, particularly its Crunchyroll streaming service, which will gain access to a wider range of Kadokawa's anime properties.

Kadokawa's extensive IP library includes notable titles such as Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, The Rising of the Shield Hero, and My Happy Marriage, alongside video game franchises like Elden Ring and Danganronpa. This collaboration aligns with Sony's interest in multimedia expansion, including live-action adaptations and international distribution.

The partnership between Kadokawa and Sony promises significant growth and expansion in the multimedia entertainment landscape.