Number Nine Enters Strategic Capital Alliance with Contents Seed to Maximize Fan Experiences via Manga IP Merchandising

The Backdrop of the Strategic Alliance

On June 5, 2026, manga IP publisher Number Nine Co., Ltd. announced a strategic capital and business alliance with Contents Seed Co., Ltd., a company specializing in the planning, manufacturing, and sale of character merchandise. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s "Entertainment and Creative Industry Strategy," published in June 2025, identified character-driven merchandising as a critical sector for generating high-value consumer experiences. In alignment with this vision, Number Nine aims to further expand the value of its manga and webtoon-based IP through robust merchandise strategies.

Objectives and Scope of Cooperation

This partnership seeks to fuse Number Nine’s expertise in manga IP production with the extensive character goods network maintained by Contents Seed. The companies plan to accelerate the development of merchandise and event collaborations based on original manga and webtoon titles. With several projects already in the pipeline, the collaboration will leverage Contents Seed's retail channels and online lottery platforms to boost fan engagement and drive consumption.

Perspectives on the Partnership

Takuma Kobayashi, President and CEO of Number Nine, expressed high expectations that Contents Seed's expertise will propel his company to the next level. He also shared his personal excitement about collaborating again with Norikazu Otsuka, President of Contents Seed—who once worked as a student intern at his company 17 years ago—now as a shareholder. Both companies remain committed to their shared mission of "creating a future we can look forward to through manga" as they embark on these new initiatives.

Contract Terms

Specific financial and contractual terms of this agreement have not been disclosed.