Toho Purchases Anime Limited, Extends European Reach With New U.K. Base

Japanese entertainment group Toho is stepping up its international animation expansion with the launch of a European headquarters in the U.K. and the acquisition of Glasgow-based distributor Anime Limited. The move strengthens Toho’s direct presence in Europe and aligns with a broader strategy that includes the 2024 acquisition of U.S. animation distributor GKIDS.

The new European hub will host Toho’s European business operations under Toho Global, providing centralized oversight for theatrical distribution, home entertainment, streaming, merchandising, and games across anime and select live-action properties. Anime Limited will become a wholly owned Toho subsidiary, operating as the company’s base of operations in the U.K. and France, while maintaining a commercial relationship with Plaion Pictures to cover Germany, Italy, and other European markets.

This latest expansion reflects Toho’s long-term shift from exporter to vertically integrated global entertainment company that develops, produces, and distributes projects from its vast library.

That transition began with the GKIDS acquisition, which brought North American theatrical distribution, awards expertise, and strong relationships with independent cinemas directly under Toho’s control via Toho International. Together, GKIDS and Anime Limited now give Toho a tremendous slice of the Western anime distribution infrastructure on both sides of the Atlantic.

Toho has positioned the European deal as part of its Toho Vision 2032 management strategy, which prioritizes animation as one of four core pillars alongside IP planning, digital initiatives, and overseas expansion.

The timing of this acquisition aligns perfectly with recent broader growth in the European anime market, which continues to benefit from increased streaming options, wider theatrical exposure, and expanding merchandise sales. Anime Limited’s existing regional expertise gives Toho greater control over releases in key European markets and puts more of the company’s theatrical destiny into its own hands.

With hubs now set up in North America, Europe, and Asia, Toho is piecing together a global animation network that mirrors the structure of major Western studios while preserving its Japanese leadership. The company now positions itself as the most formidable competitor to Sony’s Crunchyroll in the anime space, while also growing its live-action networks.