Bandai

Bandai Co., Ltd. is a Japanese toy maker and entertainment company, and the third largest toy company in the world based on revenue. It is one of the core companies of Bandai Namco Holdings. Bandai manufactures a wide variety of products, including toys, plastic models (particularly known for its Gundam model kits, or Gunpla), video games, trading cards, capsule toys (Gashapon), and confectionery.

Founded in 1950 by Naoharu Yamashina in Tokyo as a textile wholesaler called Bandaiya Shoten, the company initially focused on manufacturing and distributing toys after realizing the potential of the toy market. The name "Bandai" is derived from the Chinese expression "Bandai Fueki," meaning "eternally unchanging."

Bandai is known for creating or acquiring several highly successful franchises. Aside from Gundam, notable brands associated with Bandai include Power Rangers (originally Super Sentai), Tamagotchi, Digimon, and Dragon Ball (through Bandai Namco).

Through its various subsidiaries and divisions, Bandai is involved in the planning, development, manufacture, and distribution of its products worldwide. Bandai also engages in the operation of amusement facilities and licensing of its intellectual properties.