RightStuf Anime is one of the largest online retailers of anime and manga in North America. It has been in business for over 35 years and has a reputation for excellent customer service and a wide selection of products. In August 2022, Crunchyroll, the popular anime streaming service, acquired RightStuf Anime. This acquisition has led to speculation about whether it will become Crunchyroll’s merchandise face
Understanding RightStuf Anime
RightStuf Anime boasts a diverse and comprehensive inventory of anime and manga-related merchandise, encompassing:
- DVDs and Blu-rays
- Manga
- Collectibles, including figures
- Apparel
- Home goods
- Furthermore, it has expanded its influence into publishing, bringing manga and light novels to eager readers.
The rich history of RightStufÂ
Founded in 1987 by Gary Stuf and Sharon Stuf, RightStuf Anime had modest beginnings as a mail-order enterprise. Over time, it evolved into an e-commerce giant and even established a physical retail presence in El Dorado Hills, California. RightStuf’s growth is a testament to its dedication to the anime community, its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, and its diverse product offerings.
Crunchyroll’s acquisition of RightStuf Anime
In a momentous development, Crunchyroll, a dominant force in the anime streaming sector, acquired RightStuf Anime in August 2022. This strategic acquisition opened doors to the physical anime merchandise market for Crunchyroll, expanding its sphere of influence and product offerings.
In a surprising turns of events, Crunchyroll is integrating RightStuf Anime into its online store on October 10th, making it a one-stop shop for anime fans. This is a significant development for the anime industry, as it shows that Crunchyroll is serious about expanding its presence in the physical anime merchandise market.
The Speculation: Will RightStuf become Crunchyroll’s merchandise face?
The acquisition has prompted intriguing speculations about the future of RightStuf as the flagbearer of Crunchyroll’s merchandise division. While Crunchyroll currently operates its own merchandise store, there is the potential for a shift towards exclusively featuring RightStuf Anime merchandise.
Insights from Crunchyroll’s executive Vice President
https://x.com/ShopCrunchyroll/status/1705318772133810255?s=20
Terry Li, the current Executive Vice President of Emerging Business at Crunchyroll, shared his thoughts on the expansion of the Crunchyroll store following the merger with RightStuf. He stated,Â
“The expansion of the Crunchyroll Store underscores our commitment to providing fans with the ultimate destination for anime-inspired merchandise and collectibles. Commerce is an important element of the anime lifestyle that allows fans to proudly display their passion, and we look forward to growing the global love of anime by continuing to expand our eCommerce capabilities.”
The Verdict: Is RightStuf Crunchyroll’s Merchandise Face?
While it’s too early to definitively declare RightStuf Anime as Crunchyroll’s merchandise face, the acquisition signifies Crunchyroll’s keen interest in expanding its physical anime merchandise presence. This move holds both promise and challenges:
Pros and Cons
https://x.com/Crunchyroll/status/1705250381591191819?s=20
Pros
- Quality assurance: Crunchyroll fans can expect high-quality products and service, leveraging RightStuf’s well-earned reputation.
- Brand synergy: RightStuf Anime’s established presence in the anime community can help Crunchyroll reach new customers.
- Market expansion: Crunchyroll can extend its influence in the North American market by featuring RightStuf merchandise on its platform.
ConsÂ
- Price concerns: There’s potential for price adjustments on RightStuf’s merchandise, driven by Crunchyroll’s profit motives.
- Prioritization: Crunchyroll may prioritize its own merchandise over RightStuf Anime products.
- Retail Location: The future of RightStuf ‘s physical retail presence may shift towards online-only sales.
Conclusion
The acquisition of RightStuf Anime by Crunchyroll is a significant event in the anime industry. The move to integrate its inventory into the Crunchyroll Store suggests that Crunchyroll is serious about expanding its presence in the physical anime merchandise market.
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