Sony hones anime focus with Funimation, Aniplex merger
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Rebecca Hawkes
| 26 September 2019

Sony is restructuring its global anime business through the amalgamation of Sony Music Entertainment Japan’s Aniplex with Sony Pictures Television’s US division Funimation.

Through the consolidation, Funimation will operate an equal joint venture with the French and Australian anime divisions owned by Tokyo-based anime major Aniplex. Funimation will acquire and distribute Japanese anime content in the US, as well as through Aniplex’s Wakanim in France and Madman Anime Group in Australia.

Sony Pictures’ Television (SPT) chairman Mike Hopkins said: “Anime is a growing area of importance for us at Sony Pictures Television. By combining these businesses, we immediately increase our global reach and expertise in [subscription] VOD, theatrical, home video, merchandising, events and more.”

The joint venture, operating under the Funimation name, will be headed by Funimation’s general manager Colin Decker, who joined the company from Crunchyroll in May. He said the company will now operate in 49 countries spanning 10 languages, with around 300 employees.

“It just became clear when we looked at the global view of anime at Sony, these things should really be together. Aniplex is one of the most respected names in anime and strategically this positions us to deliver more value to fans and creators,” said Decker.

The deal follows SPT’s acquisition earlier this year of UK and Ireland anime distributor Manga Entertainment.