KADOKAWA ANNUAL REPORT 2003

Since its foundation, Kadokawa Shoten Publishing has published a wide and varied range of books as a traditional publishing company. From classical literature to bestsellers by present-day authors, through non-fiction, new book genres and dictionaries, Kadokawa Shoten Publishing is involved in all areas. Significantly, much of the narrative contents that serves as the inspiration for Kadokawa Shoten Publishing's media-mix products originates from its book operations. These days, there is nothing unique about turning bestsellers into movies, TV dramas, or even comics and cartoons. But it would probably be difficult to find another publisher in the world like Kadokawa Shoten Publishing that is involved in all aspects of this value chain.
  Kadokawa Bunko is another striking feature of Kadokawa Shoten Publishing's book operations. This series of paperbacks, first launched in May 1949, now comprises some 13,000 titles and has grown to rival the U.K.'s Penguin Books. Thanks to Kadokawa Shoten Publishing, readers can now enjoy the latest bestsellers, time-tested favorites, international literary masterpieces, literary classics, and works on philosophy, religion and other subjects in paperback form, at affordable prices. Kadokawa Bunko is increasingly growing in stature as a comprehensive paperback publishing house, covering a wide range of genres and in step with the needs of the time. Riding on the crest of popularity in new genres in recent times, particularly those dealing with linguistic themes such as English and Japanese, Kadokawa Shoten Publishing's One Theme 21 series of books are also proving popular.
  Although the Japanese publishing industry has been contracting for the past few years, Kadokawa Shoten Publishing is performing well, with a whole range of its titles making it into the top ten bestseller list. Efforts on the management front are also bolstering the company's book business. Progress has been made in improving the book return rate and, to drive profits higher, plans are closely scrutinized and marketing based on the characteristics of individual plans, while guidelines have been set for the number of new publications with the aim of boosting sales.
  Delivering quality content to readers, whether their interests lie in entertainment or non-fiction, and working tirelessly to innovate, are the hallmarks and the mission of Kadokawa Shoten Publishing as a Mega Content Provider.