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Kodama Signs Sales & Distribution Agreement with IPG

May 16, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2025
Contact: Julia Dillman | Corporate Communications
312.337.0747 | [email protected]

CHICAGO – Independent Publishers Group (IPG), the last remaining independent book distributor of significant size in North America, is pleased to announce that it has signed a sales and distribution agreement with Kodama Tales.

Kodama is a dynamic new manga publisher dedicated to bringing the best of Japanese storytelling to the U.S. and beyond. Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, they are an emerging leader in the U.S. manga publishing industry, dedicated to delivering the finest Japanese manga to Western audiences. Founded in 2024, the company is set to officially launch in 2025 with a focus on bringing both beloved classics and exciting new titles to English-speaking readers.

Among these beloved classics is Baki, a wildly over-the-top action series following a fierce young fighter on a mission to surpass his father as the strongest creature on Earth. Famous for its intense battles and larger-than-life characters, Baki has become a cultural icon, influencing movies, video games, and generations of fighting manga. With over 100 million copies sold in Japan, Baki is one of the best-selling martial arts manga series of all time. Its adrenaline-fueled legacy continues to captivate fans worldwide through its hit Netflix anime adaptation and a passionate global community.

“For us in Japan, manga is more than entertainment,” said Kiyotaka Hirai, President of Kodama Tales. “It’s a deeply rooted part of our culture, offering not only joy and inspiration, but also valuable life lessons. We’re excited to share this rich manga culture with readers around the world. Each title has been carefully selected and will be printed in Japan to ensure the highest quality.”

“At Kodama, our goal is simple: publish exceptional manga with the quality and attention these works deserve. As readers ourselves, we care deeply about every detail, from production to translation to how a book feels in your hands. This launch is just the beginning, and we’re excited for what’s ahead,” said Pierre Dubost, Co-founder of Kodama Tales.

“IPG is thrilled to be working with Kodama and assisting their mission of bringing manga to new audiences,” said Joe Matthews, CEO of IPG. “Their carefully crafted books will be exciting to bring to market.” IPG will begin worldwide distribution for Kodama on June 1, 2025.

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About Kodama:

Kodama is a U.S.-based manga publisher dedicated to bringing high-quality, officially licensed Japanese manga to a global audience. Their books are printed in Japan, using the typical format of the original releases—complete with dust jackets and obi strips—to preserve the full reading experience. They focus on bold, genre-defining titles with lasting cultural influence, aiming to highlight stories that stand apart from the crowd. Built on decade-long relationships with Japanese publishers, their work is grounded in trust, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the original creators.

About Independent Publishers Group:

Founded in 1971, IPG was the first organization specifically created for the purpose of marketing titles from independent presses to the book trade. Today, IPG’s wide reach into the book market includes distribution of both print and e-books from a wide array of publishers, digital printing, and traditional publishing. With consistent growth year over year, IPG’s success has come from supporting and encouraging the growth of its publishing partners in the United States and worldwide. IPG was acquired by Chicago Review Press in 1987, and this acquisition formed the parent company Chicago Review Press, Inc., which now owns Chicago-based indie publishers Chicago Review Press and Triumph Books.