Crunchyroll Declares This Month “Ani-May”

Happy first of the month! It’s not just May, it’s not just Mer-May, but it’s also Ani-May according to Crunchyroll.

The distributor will be partnering with mall merchant Hot Topic to introduce new products and merch as well as special giveaways. These will include the most popular properties Crunchyroll licenses, including Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia, Cowboy Bebop and Death Note, as well as something called “Toilet Bound Hanako-kun” (that brings up some interesting mental images).

Anyone who buys an anime-themed product from Hot Topic this month will receive a free 30-day trial offer of Crunchyroll Premium, delivered in the form of a sticker with a redemption code printed on it.

“Anime is a global phenomenon, capturing the hearts and minds of fans all over the world. To celebrate this dynamic medium, we’ve curated an incredible lineup of products with best-in-class retail partners that will help the anime community express their fandom not just in Ani-May, but all year long,” said Anna Songco Adamian, Vice President, Global Consumer Products, Crunchyroll.

Ani-May will not be restricted to just the US; Crunchyroll has deals in place with at least one store in every first-world country. Look at this long list:

• HMV will ensure anime fans in the UK are set up with the latest merchandise and home entertainment from some of their favorite series across more than 100 retail locations and online.

• Games Academy Funside will serve a fresh collection of anime consumer products to fans across Italy, with a special Crunchyroll gift with purchase for fans in store. More surprises will be made available to customers online.

• FNAC España has selected 2 stores : FNAC San Augustin (Valencia) and FNAC l’illa (Barcelona) to host Ani-May and prepare a dedicated podium with a selection of official merchandising. During the month of May, fans can visit these stores and win a free trial of 30 days of Crunchyroll Premium.
  FNAC France is also joining Ani-May with its store FNAC Ternes in Paris, with branded area, special product selection and free trial of 30 days of Crunchyroll Premium to win.

• Piticas, the specialty apparel and accessories store, will feature Ani-May products in over 400 retail locations across Brazil.

• Cuidado con el Perro will serve anime fans in Mexico a variety of products featuring their favorite anime series across more than 200 retail locations.

• Falabella, one of the top department stores in Chile, Colombia and Peru, will also feature a wide selection of anime merchandise throughout Ani-May and beyond.

• Thalia, leading bookseller in Germany, will feature manga and Ani-May marketing activations.

I’d tell you at this point when the Ani-May promo campaign will end, but it’s rather obvious. Get your stuff before the end of May.