Universal also considers bidding, reportedly decides not to proceed

Business news website Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that both Sony Pictures and Comcast Corp.'s Universal film division have considered bidding for anime distribution company Funimation Entertainment. However, Universal has reportedly decided not to proceed with bidding.

According to Bloomberg, Funimation confirmed that it received "unsolicited interest from a variety of companies." Bloomberg posted the following statement from Funimation:

The Funimation management team is more immediately focused on continuing to create compelling experiences for anime fans through physical, digital/streaming and theatrical efforts with goals of continuing to expand globally and maximizing shareholder value.

As of press time, Funimation has not responded to ANN's request for comment.

Funimation and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) already have a multi-year agreement in which UPHE manages distribution of all Funimation DVD and Blu-ray releases. Funimation has also partnered with Sony DADC New Media Solutions to utilize the company's Ven.ue channel creation service for its streaming app.

Bloomberg reported that Funimation has seen growth upwards of 10% per year since 2013, and its annual sales exceed US$100 million. Funimation announced a streaming and home video partnership with Crunchyroll last September.

Source: Bloomberg Technology (Anousha Sakoui)

Thanks to One-Eye and jlaking for the news tip.