Crunchyroll is transitioning its online retail operations to a membership-exclusive model, restricting access to the Crunchyroll Store to users subscribed to its Mega Fan and Ultimate Fan tiers. According to the company, this shift toward curated, exclusive merchandise follows a broader restructuring of its e-commerce strategy, which has also included the integration of products previously sold through Right Stuf.
Crunchyroll Store Membership Requirements and Benefits
Starting in August, the Crunchyroll Store will cater exclusively to higher-tier subscribers. Customers currently holding Fan Tier memberships or those without a subscription will no longer have access to the store’s inventory. The company has stated that current store benefits for Mega and Ultimate Fan members—which include a 10% discount for Mega Fan and a 15% discount for Ultimate Fan members—will conclude on August 14.
While access will be restricted, Crunchyroll confirmed that open orders will continue to process normally, including those for items released after the transition. The company also advised that gift cards will remain valid for use on the platform only until August 14.
Did you know?
Crunchyroll, a joint venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Aniplex, reached a milestone of 21 million paid subscribers globally as of May.
E-commerce Strategy and Market Consolidation
The move to a gated storefront follows a series of significant changes to Crunchyroll’s business model since its acquisition by Sony’s Funimation Global Group for $1.175 billion in 2021. In October 2023, the company migrated the inventory of Right Stuf—an anime retailer acquired in 2022—directly into the Crunchyroll Store ecosystem.
According to the company, recent organizational changes, including staff layoffs in March, were tied to this specific e-commerce strategy shift rather than general cost-cutting measures. This consolidation reflects a broader trend of centralizing anime distribution and merchandise under the Sony-owned umbrella, which also saw the end of free ad-supported streaming on the platform as of December 31.
Pricing and Subscription Tiers
The shift in store access occurs against the backdrop of a February price increase across all U.S. subscription tiers. Current pricing structures are as follows:
- Fan Tier: $9.99 per month (ad-free, simulcast access).
- Mega Fan Tier: $13.99 per month (offline viewing, four simultaneous streams, free shipping on orders over $50).
- Ultimate Fan Tier: $17.99 per month (offline viewing, six simultaneous streams, annual swag bag, and exclusive merchandise).
Pro Tip:
If you have a pending order or an unused gift card, ensure you complete your transactions or usage before the August 14 deadline to avoid potential issues during the store transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still be able to return items after the store transition?
Yes. According to Crunchyroll, refunds and returns will continue to be accepted for damaged or defective products. However, the store has designated select items as “final sale.”
Can I still use my Crunchyroll Store gift card?
Gift cards will be accepted until August 14. After this date, the company has not indicated that they will remain valid for the new, exclusive storefront.
Why is Crunchyroll restricting store access?
The company states the updated store will focus on “curated drops and Crunchyroll-exclusive merch,” shifting toward a model that prioritizes its highest-paying subscribers.
Have questions about how these changes affect your account? Share your thoughts in the comments below or check our latest guide on navigating streaming service updates.
