Animate Japan to open in Bangkok
In this article (5)
Japanese retail initiative Animate Co will open a store in Bangkok’s MBK shopping centre in the second quarter of next year, part of a program to help spread anime and manga culture throughout Southeast Asia.
According to Japanese news media, the store will be run by Animate JMA, a Japan Manga Alliance subsidiary formed in September to promote manga and anime businesses outside Japan. It provides officially released products and aims to eradicate copyright thieves, pinpointing Thailand as a market with increasing copyright issues.
Animate was joined in the JMA’s creation by publishers Kadokawa Corp, Kodansha, Shueisha and Shogakukan.
The JMA Animate store at MBK will take up a massive 561 sqm space in the 89,000 sqm, eight storey mall.
The store will stock manga and anime titles, character goods, video software, figurines and other products. It will also provide spaces for live concerts featuring anime singers and concept shops.
JMA says if the initiative proves a success in Thailand it will open stores in other Southeast Asian markets.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary goal of Animate Japan opening a store in Bangkok?
What is the primary goal of Animate Japan opening a store in Bangkok?
The main goal is to help spread anime and manga culture throughout Southeast Asia. It also aims to promote officially released products and combat copyright infringement, especially in markets like Thailand.
Q.Which companies are involved in the Animate JMA venture?
Which companies are involved in the Animate JMA venture?
Animate Co formed Animate JMA with publishers Kadokawa Corp, Kodansha, Shueisha, and Shogakukan. This subsidiary was created to promote manga and anime businesses internationally.
Q.What kind of products and services will the new store offer?
What kind of products and services will the new store offer?
The store will stock manga and anime titles, character goods, video software, and figurines. It will also feature spaces for live concerts by anime singers and various concept shops.
Q.Are there plans for Animate JMA to expand beyond Thailand?
Are there plans for Animate JMA to expand beyond Thailand?
Yes, JMA has stated that if this initiative proves successful in Thailand, they intend to open stores in other markets across Southeast Asia, indicating future expansion plans.