JAKKS Pacific and Aniplex of America Extend Partnership to Distribute an Array of All-New Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Toys and Collectibles
MWN-AI** Summary
On March 2, 2026, JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK), a prominent global toy and consumer product manufacturer, announced the extension of its partnership with Aniplex Inc. to expand the distribution of new products tied to the immensely popular anime franchise, *Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba*. This collaboration signifies a pivotal move as JAKKS Pacific's costume division, Disguise, will not only continue to offer a range of *Demon Slayer* costumes but also introduce a wider array of toys, collectibles, and accessories. The new line includes 2.5” and 3.75” scale figures, playsets for the latter, tech accessories, and other collectibles aimed at capitalizing on the franchise's growing popularity.
Ariana Berman, Senior Director of the Anime Division at JAKKS Pacific, emphasized the importance of their ongoing relationship with Aniplex for establishing a robust presence in the anime market. With over 220 million copies of the *Demon Slayer* manga sold globally, including digital formats, and the franchise’s recent record-setting film *Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle*, the demand for related merchandise has surged.
Aniplex, a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment Japan, plays a critical role in the entertainment landscape by managing numerous anime-related businesses, including merchandising and international distribution. As *Demon Slayer* continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and visually striking animation, the partnership between JAKKS Pacific and Aniplex promises exciting new products for fans.
This partnership underlines JAKKS Pacific's commitment to innovation and quality, as it expands its licensed product offerings and maintains its leadership in the toy industry, especially within the flourishing anime sector.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The recent announcement of JAKKS Pacific extending its partnership with Aniplex to distribute an array of new Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba products marks a significant strategic move that strengthens JAKKS's position in the burgeoning anime merchandise market. This partnership not only builds on the existing success of Demon Slayer, evidenced by over 220 million manga copies sold and record-breaking box office achievements, but also allows JAKKS to capitalize on the ongoing global anime boom.
From a financial perspective, investors should note the importance of leveraging popular IPs for consistent revenue streams. Aniplex’s reputation in anime production, coupled with JAKKS’s established manufacturing capabilities, positions them to effectively meet the increasing demand for high-quality collectibles and toys. This partnership is particularly timely, given the growth of the collectible toy market, projected to reach $37.6 billion by 2028, fueled largely by nostalgia and fandom.
Furthermore, JAKKS's diversified approach—expanding from costumes into action figures and accessories—opens additional revenue avenues and increases shelf space in retail environments. The strong performance of Demon Slayer further suggests that JAKKS products are likely to be well-received, thus enhancing brand loyalty and consumer engagement.
Investors should consider the potential for stock appreciation as JAKKS continues to innovate within this expanding niche. Their proactive strategy of aligning with a globally recognized franchise may lead to improved sales performance and market share. However, it is also crucial to monitor broader market trends in consumer spending and the competitive landscape, especially as other toy manufacturers may seek similar partnerships. Overall, JAKKS Pacific appears poised for growth, making it a compelling option for investors looking to tap into the dynamic world of anime and collectibles.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
SANTA MONICA, Calif., March 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK), a leading global manufacturer of toys and consumer products, and its costume division, Disguise, announced today the extension of its partnership with Aniplex Inc. to distribute a new line of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba costumes, toys, collectibles, and accessories. Under this expanded partnership, Disguise will continue to distribute Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba costumes, while also expanding the beloved anime franchise across JAKKS Pacific’s broader product portfolio.
The new deal includes 2.5” & 3.75” scale figures, playsets for 3.75” scale figures, tech accessories, and collectibles.
“Our longstanding relationship with Aniplex has been incredibly important to us as we continue to grow our presence in the anime category,” said Ariana Berman, Senior Director of Anime Division at JAKKS Pacific. “We’ve seen the incredible popularity of Demon Slayer through our costume division, and we are eager to build on that success with a new collection of products fans are sure to love.”
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is one of the best-selling manga series of all time and among the highest-grossing media franchises worldwide, earning acclaim for its stunning art, compelling story, and unforgettable characters. By July 2025, the manga had over 220 million copies in circulation, including digital versions. Its latest film, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle, shattered box office records to become the biggest anime movie globally.
JAKKS Pacific, Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of toys and consumer products sold throughout the world, with its headquarters in Santa Monica, California. JAKKS Pacific manages a broad portfolio of licensed and owned I.P. brands and products. All products are available online or in retail stores nationwide.
Owned by JAKKS Pacific, Inc., Disguise is a world leader in design and development of inventive and cutting-edge Halloween costumes and accessories with distribution across the world. With a dedication to quality and detail, Disguise continues to own the licensed costume space with additional lines rolling out each year.
Media Contact:
JAKKS Pacific
Jessica Kavanaugh
publicrelations@jakks.net
About Aniplex Inc.
Aniplex Inc., a group of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., is a diversified entertainment company handling an extensive range of businesses worldwide, primarily focusing on Japanese animation. The company develops a multitude of businesses with a primary focus on the planning and production of anime-related IPs, alongside conducting videogame planning and development, releasing video package products, producing and distributing theatrical films, television program licensing, merchandise licensing, the production and sales of merchandise and figurines, e-commerce shop ANIPLEX ONLINE operation, and live event and stage performance production.
Aniplex has full ownership of its subsidiary animation production companies A-1 Pictures Inc. and CloverWorks Inc., as well as the game production company Lasengle Inc., which mainly focuses on planning, development, and operations on game titles such as Fate/Grand Order.In addition, the firm actively pursues business opportunities and development for overseas markets via Crunchyroll, a DTC (Direct to Consumer) anime streaming service, Aniplex of America Inc., a US-based distribution company that focuses on English-speaking regions, and North and South American markets, and Aniplex (Shanghai) Ltd., which focuses on licensing, product development, and IP development for anime in China.
About Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Tanjiro Kamado - a boy who joined an organization dedicated to hunting down demons called the Demon Slayer Corps after his younger sister Nezuko was turned into a demon. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is based on the manga series by Koyoharu Gotoge, published in SHUEISHA's WEEKLY JUMP from February 2016 to May 2020. The series has captivated audiences worldwide with its tragic tale of humans and demons, riveting sword fights, charming characters, and comical scenes. The manga consists of 23 volumes and has published over 220 million units globally.
Featuring the animation produced by a studio “ufotable”, the series began with the Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc in April 2019, followed by the Mugen Train Arc, Entertainment District Arc, Swordsmith Village Arc, and Hashira Training Arc. The feature film Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Movie: Mugen Train released in October 2020 became a global sensation The latest installment, the movie - Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, shattered box office records as mentioned above in the article, setting a new standard for anime releases. The series will conclude its storyline in an epic trilogy of films.
©Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable
About JAKKS Pacific, Inc.:
JAKKS Pacific, Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of toys and consumer products sold throughout the world, with its headquarters in Santa Monica, California. JAKKS Pacific’s popular proprietary brands include Disguise®, Fly Wheels®, Charming™, Kidtopia™, Moose Mountain®, Maui®, ReDo® Skateboard Co., Sky Ball®, and Xtreme Power Dozer® as well as a wide range of entertainment-inspired products featuring premier licensed properties. Through their products and charitable donations, JAKKS is helping to make a positive impact on the lives of children. Visit us at www.jakks.com and follow us on Instagram (@jakkspacific.toys), X (@jakkstoys), YouTube (@JAKKSPacific), Facebook (@jakkspacific.toys) and LinkedIn (JAKKS Pacific).
©2026 JAKKS Pacific, Inc. All rights reserved.
FAQ**
How does the extended partnership between JAKKS Pacific Inc. JAKK and Aniplex Inc. enhance JAKKS' position in the lucrative anime merchandise market?
What specific product lines will JAKKS Pacific Inc. JAKK introduce under the expanded partnership with Aniplex, and what target demographics are they aiming for?
Considering the popularity of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, how does JAKKS Pacific Inc. JAKK plan to leverage this franchise to boost its overall sales growth in the coming years?
How might the success of the Demon Slayer film franchise impact JAKKS Pacific Inc. JAKK's future partnerships with other anime properties or brands?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about JAKKS Pacific Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK).
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