Stern Pinball has its eyes on the Japanese market, announcing a partnership with Hot Toys Japan Co., as the exclusive importer and distributor of Stern pinball machines in that country. Hot Toys Japan has a history of selling licensed products, and began a relationship with Stern by distributing its newest title, Guardians of the Galaxy, along with other new titles.
“We selected Hot Toys Japan as our exclusive importer and distributor because of their established success with related businesses, financial strength, knowledge of our industry, and passion for Stern Pinball products,” said Gary Stern, Chairman and CEO.
Hot Toys Japan will add personnel to help facilitate pinball sales to the commercial and consumer market in the country where, despite a focus on arcades and a madness for pachinko machines, pinball never took off (learn more about why here.)
“We have been long time Stern Pinball supporters and are very pleased to have the opportunity to represent Stern in the Japanese market,” said Franck Dubois, CEO of Hot Toys Japan.