Brand: Kobo

Kobo Inc., a leading e-reader and digital bookstore brand, was founded in 2009 in Toronto, Ontario, by Michael Serbinis, Todd Humphrey, and Malcolm MacLean. Originally created as a subsidiary of Indigo Books & Music, Canada’s largest book retailer, Kobo emerged as a homegrown alternative to U.S.-dominated e-reader markets. The company’s first e-reader, the Kobo eReader, was praised for its affordability, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of e-book formats. Kobo quickly gained traction as a Canadian success story in digital innovation, offering readers a high-quality alternative to competitors like Amazon’s Kindle.

Over the years, Kobo has evolved significantly, expanding its product line to include advanced e-readers like the Kobo Sage, which features stylus support and cutting-edge E Ink technology, and the waterproof Kobo Libra series, popular among readers who enjoy outdoor or bath-time reading. The Kobo Nia, an entry-level device, ensures digital reading is accessible to a broader audience. Each device is designed to withstand Canadian weather conditions, from humid summers to frigid winters, reflecting the company’s deep understanding of its home market. In 2012, Kobo was acquired by Rakuten, a Japanese e-commerce giant, but its headquarters and development team remain in Toronto, maintaining its Canadian identity and values of inclusivity and accessibility.

Kobo’s commitment to the Canadian literary scene is evident in its partnerships with local publishers and authors, as well as its integration with Canadian public libraries through OverDrive services. The company’s e-bookstore features a dedicated section for Canadian literature and frequently promotes Canadian authors, contributing to the nation’s cultural fabric. Kobo has also maintained strong ties with Indigo Books & Music, ensuring Canadian readers have access to both domestic and international titles. As a proudly Canadian brand, Kobo continues to innovate in the digital reading space, offering devices and services that cater to the needs of modern readers while celebrating Canada’s literary heritage.

Founded: Canada
Owned: Japan (Rakuten)
Manufactured: China & Taiwan (with headquarters and R&D in Toronto, Ontario).

“They are primarily manufactured by Netronix Inc., a company based in Taiwan, with production facilities in both Taiwan and China. While Kobo Inc. is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and handles design and development, the actual manufacturing of their eReaders occurs outside of Canada”

Notable: Kobo’s success story highlights Canada’s ability to compete in the global tech industry, particularly in the e-reader and digital content markets. The brand’s commitment to affordability, accessibility, and innovation has made it a favorite among readers worldwide. Kobo’s acquisition by Rakuten has allowed it to expand its reach while maintaining its Canadian roots and focus on quality. The company’s dedication to enhancing the digital reading experience, supporting Canadian literature, and integrating with public libraries underscores its role as a leader in the e-reader industry. Kobo remains a symbol of Canadian ingenuity and a testament to the power of technology to transform how we read, learn, and connect with culture.