Kadokawa, now a Sony Group subsidiary, sets ambitious publishing goals. Aiming for 9,000 original IP publications annually by fiscal year 2027, this represents a 50% increase from their 2023 output. This aggressive expansion is fueled by Sony's substantial investment and acquisition of a 10% stake.

Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno, in an interview with Nikkei, outlined the strategy. Leveraging Sony's global distribution network, Kadokawa plans significant overseas expansion. A medium-term plan projects 7,000 titles by fiscal 2025. To support this growth, the company will increase its editorial staff by 40%, aiming for approximately 1,000 employees.

This expansion includes a "media mix strategy," encompassing anime and game adaptations of existing IPs. Natsuno emphasized the goal of creating a system that fosters diversity and leads to major successes.

This collaboration benefits Sony as well, particularly Crunchyroll, its anime streaming platform with over 15 million subscribers. The partnership provides access to a vast library of Kadokawa IPs, including titles like Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, and The Rising of the Shield Hero. Kadokawa also holds significant stakes in game developers, contributing to its diverse portfolio.

Sony's interest in multimedia expansion, including live-action adaptations and international distribution, aligns perfectly with Kadokawa's ambitions. This strategic partnership positions both companies for substantial growth in the global entertainment market.