Fans of manga and anime have exciting news to look forward to as new merchandise and literary works are poised for release. COSPA, one of the leading companies for character costumes and goods, has announced the launch of new products from the popular series まちカドまぞく 2丁目. This collection showcases characters dressed in adorable nightgowns, bringing the beloved characters to life through acrylic stands and badges.
On December 27, 2024, the new merchandise will be showcased at GEE!STORE events across Japan, including the first exhibition at ドキドキ★ビジュアル★展覧会2024. The following locations will host these exciting promotional events: GEE!STORE Osaka, GEE!STORE Sendai, GEE!STORE Kokura, and GEE!STORE Nagoya until the end of March 2025. Besides event sales, pre-orders for these items are available through COSPA's official online shop and other outlets.
The merch includes large acrylic stands featuring the characters Yuko Yoshida, Momo Chiyoda, and MikanHinagiku, which will be available for general sale by mid-May 2025 at the price of 2,530 yen each, including tax. Fans can also enjoy 120cm big towels and colorful tapestries inspired by the characters’ charming designs.
One of the highlights of this merch launch is the promise of creating memorable home settings for fans who wish to invite the characters for sleepover parties with their delightful designs. According to COSPA, 'あなたのお部屋でシャミ子たちとのお泊り会を楽しもう！', or, 'Enjoy sleepovers with the characters Shiami-kun at your home!'.
Meanwhile, another significant event is set to take place at the upcoming コミックマーケット105, where the second volume of the anticipated series 今さらですが、幼なじみを好きになってしまいました will make its debut. This work, created by renowned writer Maruto Fumiaki and popular illustrator Yomu, follows protagonist Hikari Shirasaka and her childhood friend Yu Takamura as they navigate complex feelings toward each other. The release will take place on December 30, 2024, and will propose intriguing developments stemming from their previous encounters.
Readers can recall the first volume which created quite the stir during the last Comic Market. This second volume continues to explore the relationship dynamics shrouded around Hikari and her friends, where new character Aina Shinomori is expected to have pivotal interactions, upsetting the status quo. The excitement is palpable as the tale offers both sweet romantic tension and bittersweet moments.
Meronbooks will serve as the official vendor, offering the volume to fans both at physical locations and through online sales. To sweeten the deal, Meronbooks will host a special raffle where three lucky purchasers will take home signed copies from both creators, Yomu and Maruto. The book will be available for 1,500 yen at Comic Market 105 and will retail for 2,000 yen including tax at stores.
The promotional push for both 'まちカドまぞく 2丁目' and '今さらですが、幼なじみを好きになってしまいました' showcases how companies engage creatively with their fan bases, ensuring both merchandise and literature are accessible and collectible. Fans craving these new titles should mark their calendars and prepare for events leading to the 2025 releases. It's clearly going to be another thrilling year for manga enthusiasts!
