VIZ Media has tapped global licensing and brand management firm Evolution USA, LLC as its North American licensing agent. Evolution will represent the vast VIZ catalog of anime and original multimedia content, focusing on developing new merchandise and expanded retail relationships, as well as identifying and monetizing opportunities to expand VIZ’s consumer present in untapped, vertical markets.
“VIZ Media’s extensive multimedia catalog aligns perfectly with Evolution’s focus on monetizing intellectual properties and character-driven brands into new media, location-based entertainment, consumer products, and fashion apparel,” says Travis J. Rutherford, Evolution‘s President of Licensing & Retail. “There’s tremendous brand loyalty and awareness for VIZ Media’s unique properties, and we’re excited to bring new products to life that will appeal to new and existing fans alike.”
Marking its 30th anniversary this year, VIZ Media’s in-demand catalog of anime, manga and other properties includes hit series including One-Punch Man, Naruto, Hunter X Hunter and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. The company’s manga titles regularly feature on NYT and Nielsen Bookscan bestseller lists, and its anime series are widely viewed on major broadcasters like Adult Swim.
