"Keep it operating as an independent brand in the initial stage," Nakayama Takuya gave his answer. "Sotsu has been operating in the anime industry for so many years; its network of relationships with the various TV stations and sponsors is its core asset. Change the signboard, and all those relationships have to be broken in again. Let Sotsu continue doing business under Sotsu's name, while Sega Galaxy coordinates the resource allocation and strategic direction behind the scenes. Once the break-in period is over, we'll gradually push forward with deeper integration."
Pragmatic.
The directors present had no objections to this arrangement.
Nakayama Takuya closed the document in front of him.
"The Sotsu acquisition does not conflict with the Southeast Asia operation. The sources of funds are different, and so are the execution teams. Director Hattori will take the lead on the preliminary contacts and business evaluation for the Sotsu acquisition, while the Investment Department will assist by providing funding plans and valuation models. The legal department will simultaneously begin the antitrust pre-review."
He looked around the room.
"Any other questions?"
No one raised a hand.
"Then for this item, we'll proceed with preliminary preparations first. At the next board meeting, bring out a complete acquisition proposal for a vote."
The clerk put the final stroke into the meeting minutes.
After the meeting adjourned, the directors walked out in twos and threes. A few private conversations drifted faintly from the corridor.
"Once Sotsu is taken, Bandai will be the turtle in the jar."
"If Yamashina Makoto hears this news, he can forget about sleeping tonight."
Director Hattori walked at the very back, leaving the conference room side by side with Nakayama Takuya.
The old man said no polite words. He only took off his reading glasses, tucked them into the breast pocket