KADOKAWA has announced the merger of five anime production studios under its umbrella — ENGI, Studio KADAN, Chiptune, Bellnox Films, and Raging Bull — into a newly established studio called Studio One Base, which is scheduled to launch in November.
A New Hub in Ikebukuro
KADOKAWA had previously announced plans to consolidate its anime production operations at a new facility in Ikebukuro, and Studio One Base will be headquartered there. The new studio aims to carry forward the production expertise, brand identity, and creative strengths cultivated by each of the five studios, while working toward the continuous delivery of high-quality anime and the establishment of a sustainable long-term production framework.
Background and Motivation
Since 2018, KADOKAWA has steadily expanded its anime production capacity through the founding of new studios and M&A activity. The group’s studios have collectively produced 48 titles totalling 486 episodes to date.
However, the anime industry is facing mounting challenges, including a shortage of skilled workers and rising production costs. KADOKAWA has been addressing these issues under a new initiative summarised by the phrase “Nurture the people who create. Build the places where they create.” Measures have included centralising back-office functions and establishing cross-studio recruitment and talent development systems.
Goals of the Integration
The merger is positioned as more than a simple reorganisation. Key objectives include:
- Strengthening the management foundation and administrative functions across the group
- Creating an environment where creators can focus entirely on production
- Encouraging knowledge-sharing and nurturing emerging talent by consolidating all production under one roof
- Building a flexible cross-studio collaboration system that can adapt to production demands
- Developing the next generation of creators and producing works that move audiences around the world
Statements from Leadership
Tanaka Sho, Executive Officer and Chief Anime Officer at KADOKAWA, commented: “At a time when global demand for anime is expanding rapidly, we are taking on the challenge of building a sustainable production foundation for the future. We will strengthen our management base while preserving the unique character and expressive power of each studio, and create an environment where everyone can devote themselves to making anime with confidence. Without fear of change, we will forge a new future for anime production alongside our diverse assembled talents, and deliver works that exceed the imagination of fans around the world.”
Kikuchi Takeshi, President and Representative Director of Studio One Base, commented: “As the environment surrounding anime production changes dramatically, we believe that creating a space where creators can work with peace of mind is essential to continuously producing compelling work. This integration is not merely a corporate restructuring — it is an effort to carry the brands and identities that each studio has built into the future and enhance their value further. We will continue to work alongside our creators to build a production environment worthy of the work we aspire to make.”
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