In a recent interview, Tsunekazu Ishihara discussed the franchise's past, present, and future, highlighting the ongoing challenges of scalping and counterfeit products in the collectibles market.
**Pokémon's Future: CEO Envisions a Century-Long Journey**
**Pokémon's Future: CEO Envisions a Century-Long Journey**
The head of The Pokémon Company believes the franchise has the potential to thrive for another 50 to 100 years with continued innovation.
The Pokémon Company, a worldwide powerhouse in media, has been remarkably successful since its inception in 1996 on the Game Boy. Tsunekazu Ishihara, CEO since 1998, believes that with ongoing innovation, the franchise could last for another 50-100 years. Originally starting as a video game, Pokémon has branched into films, TV series, and a lucrative merchandise empire, maintaining significant global popularity.
Ishihara's confidence stems from the adaptability of the brand. He mentions that recent successes, particularly the trading card game, demonstrate a strong resurgence. However, he also acknowledges the challenges posed by scalpers and counterfeit products. The rise of the second-hand market for collectibles poses a threat to new product sales, which Ishihara sees as problematic. He emphasizes that while the rarity of items boosts their value, it also complicates the market for new products.
In addressing fan concerns, Ishihara highlights that the company is actively taking legal measures against counterfeit products to protect its brand, recently winning a case against a Chinese company and collaborating with Nintendo to sue the creators of "Palworld," which he describes as infringing on Pokémon’s intellectual property.
One of the enduring factors behind Pokémon's success, Ishihara says, is its role as a tool for communication, allowing fans to bond over shared interests. Recent events, like the European International Championships, showcase the franchise's ability to attract fans across generations, from childhood television watchers to young adults engaging in in-person events.
Despite Pokémon's success, Ishihara notes that the company remains private, focusing solely on Pokémon, which allows them to reinvest profits directly back into the franchise without external shareholder pressures. He underscored that they see the longevity of Pokémon as a direct reflection of its popularity and that complacency would jeopardize its future.
Rumors swirling around Pokémon's upcoming 30th anniversary point to potential remakes and special projects, although Ishihara remains tight-lipped. He reiterated his commitment to linking real and virtual experiences, positioning Pokémon for a vibrant, lasting presence in popular culture. "If we continue focusing on our mission, Pokémon can probably continue to its 50th or 100th anniversary," Ishihara concluded.
