Japanese entertainment company DMM.com has announced the establishment of GLEESTONE, a new animation production company created to develop and produce television anime, theatrical films, and short-form animation.
The announcement was made on November 10, 2026, marking another step in DMM's expansion into the Japanese animation production business.
A New Studio for Anime Production
GLEESTONE will handle a wide range of animation projects, including television series, theatrical productions, and short films. The company aims to bring together talented creators and build a production environment that values individual artistic skills and teamwork.
According to DMM, the studio's goal is to create animation that leaves a lasting impression rather than simply following temporary trends.
DMM Continues Expanding Its Anime Business
DMM established its anime label, DMM pictures, in 2017. Since then, the company says it has been involved in more than 120 productions and expanded into anime planning, licensing, and distribution.
In 2023, DMM also established animation company CUE with industry professional Rui Kuroki, formerly an executive and production department head at Production I.G.
GLEESTONE will become another part of this growing production structure, giving DMM additional capabilities beyond anime financing and distribution.
Industry Experience Behind the New Company
Kensuke Tateishi will serve as GLEESTONE's Chief Operating Officer. He previously worked at Sega and Kodansha and has more than 15 years of experience in rights-related business. His production credits include projects associated with Attack on Titan, Fire Force, and Yozakura Quartet.
The company also plans to operate a studio in Kichijoji, Tokyo, with the location scheduled to begin operations by the end of 2026.
What This Means for the Anime Industry
The creation of GLEESTONE reflects the continuing investment being made in Japanese animation production. As worldwide demand for anime grows, companies are looking for ways to strengthen their production capabilities and develop new projects.
However, establishing a studio does not automatically mean that new anime titles are ready to be announced. DMM has not yet revealed GLEESTONE's first production lineup or any release dates.
Final Thoughts
GLEESTONE is an important development for DMM's anime business. With experience in licensing, production, and distribution already established through its previous operations, the company is now expanding its creative production structure.
Fans can look forward to future announcements about the studio's first projects and the kinds of anime it will bring to audiences.
