CEO Kadokawa menyatakan peningkatan perusahaan animasi baru menyentuh keuntungan industri.

KADOKAWA’sdirector Takeshi Natsuno recently voiced concerns about the surge in anime and publishing firms, claiming it’s eroding profitability. He noted that despite being part of the “Big Four” publishers—alongside Shogakukan, Shueisha, and Kodansha—the group only controls 20% of new book sales, while competitors handle the remaining 80%. His remarks, shared via Naoto Misaki on X, sparked debate.

Natsuno pointed out that numerous executives and staff in small studios create fragmentation, diverting focus from creative work. He suggested merging back-office operations, similar to gaming giants like Square Enix or Electronic Arts, to streamline efforts. The CEO also criticized the rise of short-term strategies, like prioritizing popular series such as Chainsaw Man or Yuri on ICE, which he linked to declining long-term gains.

Oasis Management, KADOKAWA’s major shareholder, criticized Natsuno’s leadership. In a 133-page document, they accused him of favoring quantity over quality, citing a drop in net profit by 82.7% and reliance on formulaic IPs. They highlighted issues like outsourcing game releases, such as ELDEN RING, to third parties, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Natsuno’s public disputes and strategic missteps, including an ambitious IP expansion plan, were also scrutinized.

Despite these challenges, KADOKAWA and Aniplex formed Animec in March 2026 to boost global distribution. The company’s mid-term plan aims to refine its approach, focusing on quality IP development. While some firms like Toei Animation and Bandai Namco report profit growth, KADOKAWA’s animation division faced significant losses, as stated in its FY2026 financial report.

The industry’s future hinges on balancing expansion with sustainable practices. Natsuno’s warnings underscore the need for strategic consolidation, ensuring creativity thrives without market saturation. Stakeholders must adapt to evolving consumer demands while preserving artistic integrity.

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