The IP production company Straight Edge has officially expanded its operations with the launch of a new manga label, Straight Edge Comic (SEC). Led by founder and editor-in-chief Kazuma Miki, the label aims to prioritize creator support through a unique 'sliding royalty' structure, which scales compensation based on project performance. Additionally, the company has brought on former STUDIO ZOON editor-in-chief Kento Kaji to serve as a manga editing adviser, tasked with building production workflows and artist partnerships.
Under the 'Creator First' motto, the label is actively recruiting authors, artists, and freelance editors. While the editorial process requires a rigorous storyboard review, the company has committed to paying 'planning and development costs' to creators even if their projects are not greenlit for serialization. This approach is intended to foster long-term collaboration, with the label aiming to launch its first serialized works in 2027.
While the label is digital-first, it plans to pursue physical releases for successful titles and will leverage partnerships with major advertising groups to push for anime adaptations. Miki, who previously served as editor-in-chief for Dengeki Bunko, brings significant experience in cross-media development, having worked on major franchises such as Sword Art Online and A Certain Magical Index. Given Miki's history of managing high-profile light novel adaptations, it remains to be seen how the label’s 'small, elite team' approach will translate to the competitive manga market.
