SANRIO, Inc. Names Craig Takiguchi Chief Operating Officer

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan. 31, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanrio, Inc. has announced the appointment of Craig Takiguchi as Chief Operating Officer. Since 2016, Mr. Takiguchi has headed up new business development for the company. In his role as COO, Mr. Takiguchi will lead Sanrio's commitment to deliver unique products and experiences, aligned with its legendary 'small gift, big smile' philosophy. He will play a critical role in establishing strategic partnerships and driving new 21^st century innovation.

"I am honored to take on this new role," says Mr. Takiguchi. "I have a deep appreciation for the legacy of the Sanrio brand and our Japanese heritage. I am committed to evolving the brand and connecting with the next generation of Sanrio customers."

The undisputed power of global lifestyle brand Sanrio, known for beloved pop icon Hello Kitty, millennial favorite Gudetama, and latest Japanese export Aggretsuko, lies in its millions of devoted fans. Sanrio's ability to authentically connect with these fans in multi-platform executions including partnerships, content, products and experiences continues to distinguish its brands and deepen connections with existing and next-generation consumers. 

"North America is a key market for our global business and an influential center for our brand," says Yuko Tsuji, Director of Sanrio Co. Ltd. "I am confident that Mr. Takiguchi's strong leadership, entrepreneurial spirit and thoughtful approach will bring our company into a new era of innovation and success."

In his role as COO, Mr. Takiguchi will focus on establishing the vision for Sanrio and driving growth and brand evolution in key markets. His immediate objective is to develop significant, wide-ranging initiatives in the digital space, a new frontier for Sanrio. Target markets will include digital media and entertainment which is a $703B industry in the US and the toy and game industry which is expected to reach $21B in the US by 2021. Mr. Takiguchi will also oversee Sanrio's day-to-day operations, including re-conceptualizing its licensing opportunities, retail partnerships, collaborations, and experiential touchpoints, with focus on enriching customer experience and connecting with Sanrio's large and loyal following. He will also expand the company's restaurant and specialty food concepts, including the Hello Kitty Cafe, which has garnered significant attention since its phenomenal West Coast debut in 2015.

Mr. Takiguchi is a creative entrepreneur and successful management executive with extensive experience in consumer brands, franchising and international development. He has a strong track record for identifying and introducing new concepts and products into the US market. His expertise in franchising and brand building is a valuable asset in establishing Sanrio's unique position in the global market. Before joining Sanrio, Mr. Takiguchi led the global expansion of Yogurtland as Vice President. Prior to that, he was co-founder and CEO of Muginoho International, the parent company of Beard Papa's Sweets Cafe, and has held management level positions at Sony Pictures Entertainment, PepsiCo and The Walt Disney Company.

He will be based in Sanrio's North American headquarters in Los Angeles and work directly with Sanrio's global headquarters in Tokyo. His appointment is effective immediately.

High-resolution images available upon request

About Sanrio^®   

Sanrio is the global lifestyle brand best known for pop icon Hello Kitty^®, and home to many beloved characters including Chococat^®, My Melody^®, Badtz-Maru^®, Keroppi^® and Gudetama.  Sanrio was founded on the 'small gift, big smile'^® philosophy – that a small gift can bring happiness and friendship to people of all ages. Since 1960, this philosophy has served as the inspiration to offer quality products, services and activities that inspire unique consumer experiences across the world. Today, Hello Kitty's legendary breadth of products is available in over 130 countries and in retail locations including department, specialty, national chain retailers and Sanrio boutique stores. To learn more about Sanrio, please visit www.sanrio.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter - @sanrio, @hello kitty.

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SOURCE Sanrio, Inc.