Viz Media Appointed Representative for San-X Portfolion in North America and Europe

SAN FRANCISCO, CA September 18, 2024 – Viz Media is thrilled to announce a new partnership with SAN-X, a leading Japanese character goods and lifestyle company. Through this agreement, Viz Media will represent San-X‘s portfolio of properties, including globally beloved characters Rilakkuma and Sumikkogurashi. Effective immediately, VIZ will manage San-X properties across core merchandise categories such as apparel, toys & collectibles, food and beverage, and more, as well as experiences and promotions in North America and Europe. VIZ is excited to launch the license at the Brand Licensing Europe trade show in September!

“We are honored to welcome San-X properties to the VIZ family and to expand these whimsical brands to western audiences in new and exciting ways. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of bringing popular Japanese brands to global markets for nearly 40 years,” said Laura Takaragawa, Vice-President, Consumer Products, Viz Media.

“We are thrilled and delighted to partner with Viz Media. With Viz Media‘s extensive expertise in the field of licensing, we’re confident that we will make great strides in expanding San-X IP and growing our presence in the key markets such as the United States, Europe, and many more. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Viz Media even further and eagerly anticipate the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.” said Masanori Ando, General Manager, Overseas Division, San-X.

ABOUT VIZ MEDIA:

Wherever manga and anime fans are, we are! Viz Media is No. 1 in Japanese pop culture, introducing fans to what’s now, new, and next. Home to the world’s most influential and groundbreaking storytellers and artists, who today drive multiple industries from publishing and animation to film and gaming. If it’s big in Japan, you can find it at VIZ.

Expert leaders in developing innovative and premium consumer wares, coupled with an iconic Consumer Products portfolio: Naruto, Hunter X Hunter, Bleach, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Doraemon and Inuyasha amongst others, Viz Media is known for shaping licensing programs that create culture and make brands industry pacesetters.

For Viz Media licensing opportunities please contact: [email protected]

Viz Media is proudly certified as a Most Loved Workplace® in America and Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces. For more information on Viz Media visit: https://www.viz.com/

ABOUT SAN-X:

Based in Tokyo, San-X is one of the largest character manufacturing companies in Japan, specializing in stationery, plush, and accessory goods.

San-X has continuously created over 1,000 entirely original characters, including Rilakkuma, Sumikkogurashi, and Tarepanda. These characters, with their unique charm, are brought to the world through original products, licensing businesses, various events, promotions, and media such as films.

San-X characters are not just “kawaii”; they also possess a subtle sense of humor that makes you chuckle, as well as a gentle warmth that comforts and embraces your heart.

For more information about San-X visit: https://www.san-x.co.jp