# Global anime market expansion and industry growth > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-anime-market-expansion-and-industry-growth > Updated: 2026-09-16T07:54:39.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. The global anime market is undergoing a transition toward integrated business models, characterized by growth in both streaming and theatrical sectors. Sony-owned Crunchyroll has begun expanding from a digital streaming service into an integrated ecosystem that includes theatrical releases, live events, and consumer products. While this expansion aims to maximize the value of its library, the platform has faced criticism for removing certain series, such as ‘Black Lagoon’, ‘Barakamon’, and ‘Death Parade’, without prior warning. Industry data indicates that anime has become the leading genre on Asian streaming platforms, with Netflix reporting that anime engagement grew nine times faster than its overall service between July 2025 and August 2026. This growth extends to the film industry, with Crunchyroll preparing an aggressive 2027 theatrical slate including ‘Witch on the Holy Night’, ‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle 2’, and ‘Solo Leveling: Beyond the System’. Additionally, studio MAPPA has seen its regional market share increase significantly, rising from 6.1% to 17.3% in the first half of 2026. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: Anime industry sees growth in theatrical releases and streaming market share Anime is seeing massive growth in both theaters and streaming, with Crunchyroll planning a major 2027 film slate and MAPPA gaining significant market share via hits like ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/anime-industry-sees-growth-in-theatrical-releases-and-streaming-market-share ### 2026-08-19: Crunchyroll expands anime business into theatrical and physical markets Crunchyroll is expanding into theatrical releases and merchandise to build an anime ecosystem, even as fans express frustration over the unannounced removal of popular series like 'Black Lagoon'. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/crunchyroll-expands-anime-business-into-theatrical-and-physical-markets --- Cite as: Global anime market expansion and industry growth. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-anime-market-expansion-and-industry-growth