MangaPlaza Discusses Licensing and Growth at Anime Expo 2026

During an in-person interview at Anime Expo 2026, representatives from the digital manga distributor MangaPlaza outlined their operational philosophy and business history. The company emphasizes a fan-first approach, prioritizing user experience and customer feedback while maintaining official licensing agreements with Japanese publishers.

Pricing decisions are made collaboratively with rights holders, allowing for coordinated sales events during periods like Golden Week or US holidays. The distributors noted that the global surge in anime popularity has significantly boosted international manga sales, citing the Netflix release of Ramparts of Ice as a case where related title sales doubled.

Founders Takahiro Ishii and Daichi Katsuki shared their backgrounds in IT and telecommunications, detailing the platform's evolution from early mobile services to its current web-based interface. They highlighted the importance of convenience and legal access in competing with unauthorized distribution channels.