VIZ Media has launched a line of J-Pop, manga, and anime-related inspired clothing, stationery, bags, and other items. For this first venture into "on-demand" merchandising, the company has focused on several non-licensed designs that will include graphics and wording such as "I Love Anime" or "I Love Manga." Fans will be able to customize the designs to some degree, and the products will be produced within 24 hours of ordering.

Founded in 2005, Zazzle is an on-demand site that gives the opportunity to major brands to offer one-of-a-kind products to consumers. Using the libraries of content-owners, it enables them to release their content in a customizable style on items that the consumers can purchase. Digital printing provides millions of colors, allowing affordable production of customized apparel.

David Dewalt, the Senior Director of Licensing & Retail Development for VIZ Media, is pleased with this new partnership, and this new direction for VIZ. "The launch of a J-Pop inspired fashion and accessories line is exactly what our consumers are looking for... Our partnership with Zazzle is allowing us to bring fans the products they want by working with a leader in the industry."

Jason Kang, Vice President of Marketing for Zazzle, is equally enthusiastic. "VIZ Media is one of the most innovative anime studios in their industry and their content is compelling and extremely popular. We are thrilled to be working with them to bring fans around the globe an array of one-of-a-kind products exclusively, and on-demand."

This initial launch is just the beginning for the budding partnership between VIZ Media and Zazzle. VIZ expects to engage in a larger product rollout this year (2009), which will likely include shojo (female)-focused fashion, more "otaku" (fan of anime and manga) designs, and other special designs.

To find the currently available designs, visit the VIZ Media J-Pop Style Shop on Zazzle.

Source: VIZ Media