AXS Goes Big in Japan with Lawson Entertainment Joint Venture—’AXS Tickets’ Sets Sail

Photo Credit: JJ Ying

AXS and Lawson Entertainment form a ticketing joint venture in Japan, AXS Tickets, establishing a major expansion of AXS’ business in Japan.AXS and Lawson Entertainment, one of Japan’s major entertainment and ticketing companies, have formed a new joint venture named AXS Tickets. This move establishes a major expansion of AXS’ business operations in Japan.

The joint venture combines the capabilities of both companies to serve the Japanese live events market. AXS will contribute its technology platform and global expertise, including advanced features like ID-based ticketing, mobile solutions, dynamic pricing, and data analytics.

Meanwhile, Lawson will contribute its deep local relationships and status as a highly recognized consumer brand in Japan. Lawson operates a large ticketing business with extensive retail and digital reach, covering sports, live entertainment, theater, and other cultural events.

The partnership aims to increase innovation and scale in ticketing solutions for artists, promoters, venues, and fans across Japan. The new entity will integrate the full scope of both companies’ services.

Lawson’s core business spans ticketing, travel, entertainment retail, movie theaters, and fan club management. AXS technology is expected to provide secure, flexible, and personalized ticketing options.“Japan’s live entertainment market is changing quickly, and this joint venture aims to help define its future,” said Motoki Ishikawa, Managing Director of AXS Japan. “By combining Lawson Entertainment’s regional strength with AXS’ international technology, AXS Tickets will deliver a more connected ticketing experience for clients and fans in Japan.”

“Our goal is to connect fans with the experiences they want. This partnership allows us to build on our trusted local brand by incorporating AXS’ international network and technological approach,” added Dai Sakai, Executive Officer of Lawson Entertainment. “Together, we are establishing a new standard for live entertainment access in Japan.”

AXS Japan has operated since 2018, having ticketed thousands of events and sold tens of millions of tickets for Japanese sports leagues, professional teams, and major event organizers. The new joint venture further solidifies this foundation.

Specific details regarding new ticket sales locations via the AXS website or in-store purchasing will be announced at a later date.