Kazé

Cédric Littardi launched Kazé in 1994 from the ninth arrondissement of Paris with a clear mission: introduce Japanese anime and manga to French audiences. The company started as a small publisher but quickly grew into a dominant force across Europe, handling everything from physical graphic novels to digital streaming licenses. It became known for picking series that resonated deeply with local fans rather than just chasing every available title.

Ownership shifted multiple times over the years as the market expanded. Viz Media Europe took control in 2009, followed by WarnerMedia via Otter Media. Sony later acquired the operation through its Crunchyroll EMEA division, integrating the brand into a massive global streaming ecosystem. A major turning point arrived in September 2025 when HarperCollins purchased Kazé along with Crunchyroll's French and German manga divisions.

The publisher officially relaunched under the HarperCollins banner in April 2026. This move signals a strategic shift toward broader book distribution channels while keeping the distinct focus on Japanese pop culture. The brand now operates as a subsidiary of a traditional publishing giant, leveraging new resources to expand its catalog and reach across the continent. [edit]