animate, renowned as Japan's largest anime merchandise store chain, has announced plans to expand into the Philippine market by 2026. This marks a new step in the globalisation strategy of the retailer, which has long been a familiar destination for travellers seeking Japanese pop culture goods.
animate has become a must-visit for otaku in Japan, thanks to its extensive selection of officially licensed products from popular anime series, manga, figures, and rare collectibles. By bringing this distinctive shopping experience abroad, animate aims to meet the growing demand from the anime fan community in the Philippines.
Specific details about the location and size of the store have not yet been disclosed, but the move highlights Japanese brands' increasing interest in the Southeast Asian market, where Japanese pop culture is strongly resonating. Anime enthusiasts in the Philippines can look forward to a shopping experience similar to that of animate stores in Japan, with items regularly updated to reflect trending anime series.
