What company was established to manage the Pokémon franchise internationally and in Japan?

The Pokémon Company manages the Pokémon franchise through its Japanese and international operations.

The company was established as Pokémon Center Co., Ltd. in 1998, initially focusing on Pokémon Center retail stores. It was reorganized and renamed The Pokémon Company in 2000 as the franchise expanded across games, animation, cards, merchandise, and licensing.

The Pokémon Company is jointly connected to Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak, the three companies that own the Pokémon property in Japan. Its international subsidiary, The Pokémon Company International, manages operations outside Asia and was established in 2009.

Nintendo is often named as the sole owner because it publishes the games and is the most visible corporate partner. Game Freak develops the main games, while Creatures contributes to the trading card game and other projects. The Pokémon Company’s role is broader franchise management rather than game development alone.