We are pleased to inform you that Periplus Co., Ltd., in which J-STAR No.3 SS, LP, etc., which we provide investment-related services*, has acquired shares in Kurashino (Head Office: Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture; Representative Director: Shotaro Ichikawa; hereinafter referred to as “Kurashino”), CRAFTA INC. (Head Office: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Yujin Nagashima; hereinafter referred to as “CRAFTA”), and 1k, inc,  (Head Office: Osaka-shi, Osaka Prefecture; Representative Director: Yasuaki Kimura; hereinafter referred to as “1k”).

Kurashino, CRAFTA and 1k (hereinafter referred to as the “Target Group”) are engaged in internet media business. The Target Group’s operating media is ranked among top in Japan in terms of the number of viewers, including page views (PV), as a lifestyle media that provides information sought by users with high interest in themes such as outdoors and DIY.

We have acquired the shares of the Target Group to seek synergy by combining the three companies’ strengths: strong contents creation by Kurashino, solid media management infrastructure by CRAFTA, and 1k’s media brand. By pursuing synergies and growth strategies including additional acquisitions, we will help the Target Group continues to contribute to fulfilling and enjoyable lives of the users.

We have received advice and cooperation from the Nagashima, Ono, and Tokomatsu Law Offices as legal advisors (including the implementation of legal due diligence) for this investment. AnDus Corporation and Arestra Partners Corporation performed financial and tax due diligence and business due diligence, respectively.

END

* We provide investment-related services to J-STAR No.3 SS, LP, etc., respectively., directly or via subsidiaries, such as due diligence and recommendation of investment opportunities, and target company management support.

Media Business acquisition by Periplus Co., Ltd.