Which three companies founded Pokémon Center Co., Ltd. in 1998 to manage Pokémon Center stores?

Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak founded Pokémon Center Co., Ltd. in 1998 to manage Pokémon Center stores.

The company was established on April 23, 1998, as a joint venture involving the original game publisher, the Trading Card Game developer, and the video-game studio behind the main series. Its initial purpose was focused on specialized Pokémon merchandise stores.

The first Pokémon Center store opened in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, on July 18, 1998. As the franchise expanded, managing stores became only one part of a much wider brand-management role.

In October 2000, Pokémon Center Co., Ltd. expanded its responsibilities and was renamed The Pokémon Company. The three founding companies remain the owners of the Pokémon franchise, while The Pokémon Company coordinates licensing, publishing, marketing, and related businesses.