Aniplex

Aniplex Inc is a Japanese entertainment company that is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment Japan. Founded in September 1995, the company is responsible for the planning, production, and distribution of anime series, which includes original works and those based on licensed intellectual properties (IPs). It also engages in related multimedia initiatives. Its name is a possible portmanteau of Animation and Complex. Aniplex's operations encompass the development and distribution of theatrical films, video games, and merchandise associated with its media franchises. It also releases home media, produces original soundtracks, and organizes events such as musicals, stage performances, and promotional concerts. The company manages copyrights and licensing agreements, and operates an e-commerce platform, Aniplex Online, through which it sells products directly to consumers. While Aniplex operates globally, it maintains two main regional branches: Aniplex of America, headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and Aniplex China, based in Shanghai. Together with its sister company Sony Pictures, Aniplex co-owns Crunchyroll, LLC, which operates an eponymous streaming service with 21 million paid subscribers. Aniplex has produced numerous notable anime series such as Fullmetal Alchemist, Gurren Lagann, Monogatari Series, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, Fate Series, Sword Art Online and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. It also operates and publishes the mobile game Fate/Grand Order. Aniplex is a member of Association of Japanese Animations (AJA), a regular member of the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA), a supporting member of the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ), and a member of the Japan Video Software Association (JVA).