M&A Advisory
AlixPartners
Full Credential Description
Crimson Phoenix acted as the M&A advisory firm for a listed Japanese media conglomerate seeking to expand strategically into the European market. The client faced the challenge of entering a new market with distinct cultural preferences and a competitive landscape. To address this, Crimson Phoenix facilitated the formation of a joint venture with a French media group that specializes in Franco-Belgian comics. This partnership, formalized on January 25, 2024, and completed on October 1, 2024, resulted in the establishment of a new company, with the Japanese firm holding a 51% stake and the French partner 49%.
The tailored solution involved focusing on the publication of translations of Japanese manga, light novels, and Korean works for Francophone markets, while also exploring the creation of comic adaptations of European works. This strategic approach not only allowed the Japanese company to leverage its content in a new market but also positioned it to tap into the growing interest in manga and anime among French-speaking audiences.
While the size of the transaction remains undisclosed, this joint venture represents a significant step for the Japanese media conglomerate in diversifying its offerings and enhancing its presence in Europe. This deal marks the second transaction in the manga and anime sector for Crimson Phoenix, following its advisory role in the sale of Right Stuf, Inc., the largest dedicated U.S. e-commerce platform for anime consumer products, to Crunchyroll in 2022.