Anique Secures 1.3 Billion Yen for Global Expansion
Anique Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has successfully completed a Series B funding round, raising approximately 1.3 billion yen. The funding comes from notable investors, including Global Brain Corporation through its Global Brain No.9 Fund, the Takanawa Gateway Earth Benefit Investment Limited Partnership, and the Canon Marketing Japan MIRAI Fund, as well as financing from various banks. This significant capital raises the stakes for Anique's ambitious plans to scale its experience-based business model, which spans the international deployment of Japanese IPs, digital experiences, and dining/space development initiatives.
Funding Objectives and Market Insights
Anique's mission is to bring characters to life and captivate audiences worldwide through digital and physical experiences. With the increasing global enthusiasm for Japanese manga, anime, and gaming culture, the demand for ownership of goods and immersive experiences has surged significantly across borders.
According to the Japan Animation Association's
Anime Industry Report 2025, the market size for Japanese anime is projected to reach a record 3.84 trillion yen in 2024, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. Remarkably, the overseas market alone accounts for 2.2 trillion yen, outpacing the domestic market for two consecutive years. This growing global engagement underscores the urgent need for Anique to accelerate its operations.
Key Funding Priorities
To harness this momentum, Anique is strategically focusing on three key areas:
1.
Accelerating Global Expansion
Anique’s products have already garnered considerable support and sales in international markets, including China, the USA, and South Korea. The recent funding will enable Anique to recruit global talent tailored to the marketing and logistics needs of these diverse markets.
2.
Designing Real Customer Experiences
In addition to digital touchpoints, Anique aims to enhance physical spaces that immerse fans in the worlds of their favorite genres. Expanding its dining and spatial development projects will create sensory-rich experiences that promote community building. The company is looking for project producers to oversee this initiative.
3.
Quality Co-Creation with IP Rights Holders
Anique's strength lies in its ability to communicate directly with rights holders to gain profound insights into their works. This funding will support hiring directors and project developers capable of creating high-quality merchandise and events that exceed fans' expectations.
Anique's Record and Future Plans
Anique has made significant strides in recent years, focusing on experiential marketing and using cutting-edge technology for global outreach. Since 2023, the company has hosted events in major cities worldwide, solidifying its position in the international IP experience market. Moreover, Anique leverages technologies such as AI and VR to create innovative experiences not limited to physical spaces, enhancing interactions for overseas fans.
The Launch of Experience-Based Dining: Sahre Cafe
In 2025, Anique entered the dining sector via two acquisitions, launching
Sahre Cafe, an experience-driven cafe that artisticly combines Japan's matcha culture with its anime and pop culture. Highly praised by domestic and international visitors, the cafe offers an opportunity for fans to engage with Japanese culture beyond mere consumption.
Anique's vision extends beyond Japan, striving to expand its presence internationally while emphasizing shared experiences around matcha and pop culture.
Recruiting Core Members for a New Growth Phase
As Anique transitions into what it calls a