At Anime Expo, we had the opportunity to speak with two key figures behind TOMY’s expanding collector toy lines: Kenta Wakisawa, Assistant Manager of R＆D Team, and Takayuki Miyauchi, Senior Assistant Manager of Marketing Team, both from the Collector Business Group, Hobby Character Business Division. The two discussed the origins of the T-SPARK brand, its strategic focus, and plans for global expansion, particularly in the North American market.

T-ONO: Can you tell us about the concept behind T-SPARK and how the various toy lines under it connect?

Wakisawa: T-SPARK was launched about a year ago to build upon TOMY’s strength in transformation, combination, and articulation. These are core elements in our products, and T-SPARK is our challenge to evolve from a hobby-focused brand into a full-fledged hobby and figure brand. We want to expand the line while creating something with lasting value in the collector space.

Miyauchi: It’s not just about adding more product lines, it’s about figuring out how to connect with new markets. That’s why we created COLLEKAZARO and SPARK Fig, both lines that directly tackle what we saw as a gap compared to major figure brands. It’s a bold effort aimed at developing something fresh for the audience.

T-ONO: Is the American release of T-SPARK a test line or part of a full-scale product launch?

Wakisawa: It’s definitely a serious launch. It’s not just a test; we’re fully committed to productizing it and expanding it as part of our long-term plans.

T-ONO: What’s the relationship between T-SPARK and major legacy IPs like ZOIDS and Diaclone?

Miyauchi: We’ll continue to support and expand long-running brands like Transformers, ZOIDS, and Diaclone, which remain core pillars. But we’re also working to introduce new IPs under T-SPARK to diversify our offerings and appeal to broader audiences.

T-ONO: COLLEKAZARO deviates from the 6-inch figure standard in the U.S. Why did you choose a 3.75-inch scale instead?

Miyauchi: The 6-inch action figure market is already saturated. Rather than entering the same space, we wanted to differentiate ourselves with something easier to collect, especially for new fans. COLLEKAZARO is designed to be approachable and enjoyable for both seasoned collectors and newcomers, including women and younger audiences. We’ve intentionally limited articulation to keep play simple and accessible.

T-ONO: What are some standout products you're particularly proud of within T-SPARK?

Wakisawa: Personally, I have strong feelings about the Brave Series from the TOYRISE line. I grew up watching it, and it really represents TOMY’s DNA of playable, durable toys that aren't just for display. We’re bringing that same spirit into Q VILLAGE, our new line designed to take on the global market, including the U.S., which reflects a modern take on TOMY’s transformation and combination mechanics.

Miyauchi: One of our most exciting developments is SYNERGENEX, a new collaborative sub-brand under T-SPARK. We’ve partnered with other IPs like Evangelion, Monster Hunter, and Macross 7. At this year’s Big West panel, we announced a figure of Basara Prime from Macross 7, which was met with great enthusiasm. We hope to continue building excitement through these unique crossovers.

T-ONO: What kind of feedback are you hoping to gather from fans at Anime Expo?

Wakisawa: Since T-SPARK just launched last year, we’re still in a phase where not all products are widely available yet. That makes events like Anime Expo invaluable. We want to hear both the good and the bad. Praise motivates us, and criticism helps us improve. Whether it’s on social media or in person, all feedback helps guide how we grow the brand.

Miyauchi: Exactly. It’s not just about marketing, it’s about connecting with fans. We want T-SPARK to be something people recognize year after year. If someone comes back to AX next year and says, “Wow, T-SPARK has really evolved,” then we know we’re doing something right.