Why Toho’s UK HQ and Anime Limited Buyout Could Change Anime Distribution in Europe

If you thought Godzilla was just stomping through cities on-screen, think again. Behind the scenes, Toho Co., Ltd. the iconic Japanese entertainment powerhouse behind Godzilla Minus One just made one of its boldest global business moves yet. The company announced a new European regional headquarters in the United Kingdom and the acquisition of UK-based anime distributor Anime Limited. This strategy isn’t just about raw power; it’s about positioning Toho as a global anime and content titan.

Toho’s decision to establish a European regional HQ in London marks a major milestone. Europe has long been a dynamic market for Japanese entertainment, especially anime. With anime consumption and box office numbers rising across the continent, having a local base lets Toho directly manage theatrical releases, home video distribution, TV rights, merchandising and licensing all without relying on third parties.

This move follows Toho’s earlier steps in global expansion, including its acquisition of North American distributor GKIDS in 2024 and the launch of Toho Entertainment Asia in Singapore, giving the company serious global coverage.

London makes strategic sense. The UK is not just a media-friendly hub; it gives Toho access to major European markets like France, Germany, Italy and Spain through partnerships and distribution networks. The European HQ also brings Toho closer to fans and creators, making western releases smoother and timelier.

Enter Anime Limited, a Glasgow-based distributor and e-commerce anime powerhouse founded in 2012. This company has built credibility with Western audiences by handling beloved titles like Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, Neon Genesis Evangelion and even Godzilla Minus One theatrical runs in the UK.

Toho’s acquisition gives the studio immediate distribution muscle across Europe, particularly in the U.K. and France. Importantly, Anime Limited’s full staff and leadership (including founder Andrew Partridge) are staying on board, helping ensure continuity and expertise.

1. Anime Market Boom: The European anime market was valued at roughly $4.8 billion in 2024, with expected growth to over $9 billion by 2030. That’s the kind of curve even Godzilla would envy.
2. Faster Releases & Better Local Support: Fans get releases more quickly and culturally adapted content without awkward delays or licensing limbo.
3. Stronger Brand Presence: Toho now has real boots on the ground in Europe — not just digital signals bouncing around servers.

Toho’s expansion isn’t just corporate growth, it’s strategic foresight. They aren’t just chasing eyeballs; they’re building infrastructure to support anime and cinematic releases like never before. Whether you’re a die-hard Godzilla fan or an anime aficionado, this move means more content, smoother distribution, and a bigger footprint for Japanese entertainment across Europe.