EuropeanLife Media Team visited the Manga Expo Barcelona at December 9 to find out if this expo might be interesting for investors.
The Manga Expo in Barcelona has cemented its status as a premier event in the global manga landscape. With an impressive 167,000 visitors in 2024, building on 163,000 attendees in 2023, it stands as the largest manga event in Spain and the second largest in Europe. This expo is more than a celebration of manga—it’s a dynamic hub where culture, creativity, and commerce converge.
A Showcase of Manga Excellence
The event is a haven for manga enthusiasts, offering the largest selection of manga titles. Renowned publishers such as Norma Comics, Panini Comics, and Planeta Comic headline the lineup, presenting both classic and new works. Beyond the books, the expo also attracts celebrated Japanese authors, including Naoki Urasawa, known for masterpieces like Yawara! and Monster, and Yumiko Igarashi, the beloved illustrator behind Candy Candy.
But manga is not just about storytelling—collectibles play a central role in this culture. From keychains to high-end figurines, the expo showcases items that cater to casual fans and serious collectors alike. Some figurine collections have even reached values of over €50,000, underscoring their potential as both investments and prized possessions.
The Ever-Growing Manga Collections
Manga’s serialized nature, comparable to television seasons, fosters long-term engagement among fans. Series like Dokaben, which holds the record with over 205 volumes, illustrate this commitment. For collectors, older editions in good condition become highly sought-after, further enhancing their value over time.
A Global Cultural Influence
The global impact of manga is undeniable, reflected in a significant rise in tourism to Japan. From January to September 2024, 26,880,224 overseas tourists visited Japan, many inspired by their love for manga and anime. This influence was evident at the expo, with stands promoting Japanese travel, university courses, and group tours, bridging the cultural connection between Spain and Japan.
Beyond Manga: A Lifestyle Experience
The expo offers more than just manga. Visitors explored stalls featuring a diverse array of items, from apparel and jewelry to home goods like ramen bowls, tea sets, lamps, and artwork. This diversity reflects the far-reaching influence of Japanese culture on global lifestyle trends.
Iconic Brands and Gaming Highlights
Fans of iconic franchises like Dragon Ball, My Neighbor Totoro, Gundam, and Pokémon were delighted to see these brands prominently featured. Adding to the excitement, Nintendo hosted a pop-up shop and showcased games for the Nintendo Switch, blending the worlds of gaming and manga seamlessly.
Is Manga Expo Barcelona an Opportunity for Investors?
The Manga Expo Barcelona offers more than just a celebration of Japanese culture and storytelling—it provides a unique opportunity for investors looking to tap into the booming manga and collectibles market. With its mix of cultural exhibits, exclusive collectibles, and industry-leading publishers, the expo is increasingly becoming a hotspot for investment opportunities.
High-Value Collectibles
Collectibles such as figurines, replicas, and limited-edition merchandise showcased at the expo are more than fan memorabilia—they’re valuable assets. High-end figurines can reach values exceeding €50,000, particularly those tied to iconic franchises or produced in limited runs. For investors, acquiring such items at events like this can lead to significant returns, as the value of rare collectibles continues to rise in global markets.
Rare Manga Editions
For book collectors, manga presents another avenue for investment. Older editions and complete collections of long-running series in excellent condition can command premium prices. With series like Dokaben boasting over 205 volumes, dedicated fans and collectors are willing to pay a premium for completing their collections. The longevity and cultural significance of these works make them timeless assets.
A Growing Cultural Economy
Manga’s influence is fueling a surge in tourism to Japan and driving demand for related products worldwide. The expo mirrors this trend by featuring stands from Japanese travel companies, education providers, and lifestyle brands. Investors can explore partnerships and identify trends within the growing manga-driven lifestyle economy.
Insights into Global Trends
Attending Manga Expo Barcelona offers investors valuable insights into consumer preferences and emerging trends. With the presence of major publishers like Norma Comics, Panini Comics, and Planeta Comic, and leading brands like Nintendo, the expo provides a snapshot of what’s popular and profitable in the global manga and anime market.
Conclusion
For investors interested in the intersection of culture, collectibles, and commerce, Manga Expo Barcelona is an event worth exploring. From uncovering high-value assets to gaining insights into an expanding global market, the expo serves as both a cultural experience and a potential goldmine. Whether you’re a dedicated collector, a casual fan, or simply curious about this vibrant world, the Manga Expo is a must-visit experience.
By Jesse Bijsterbosch