Tokyo Agent: Starting with Picking Up a Problem Girl

Chapter 159 Getting something for nothing

Yu Shiraishi had almost no cosmetic smell on her, only the fresh scent of laundry detergent, and she was clean and tidy.

"How about this one?"

Nakajima Hiro forced himself to look at the screen and stop thinking about the other person's profile.

This is a standard variety show live performance, where each group is responsible for its own profits and losses. Collaborative performances are often organized by small agencies with insufficient artist resources.

On the one hand, a small number of celebrities can be used to drive sales and sell merchandise; on the other hand, people can also take the opportunity to get to know some peers.

After all, this industry is very unstable.

If the company goes bankrupt, the artist and business resources it has can be transferred, and you can make money whether you look for jobs or resell them.

In Nakajima Hiro's view, this kind of activity is naturally a lucrative job for celebrities, as they sell their merchandise and can earn commissions.

"Let me see."

After careful consideration, Shiraishi Yu shook his head: "It feels like—"

She glanced cautiously at Nakajima Hiroshi.

It was clear that they were unsure whether to agree with their leader.

That means there are differing opinions.

Nakajima Hiro looked into Shiraishi Yu's eyes, trying to make his gaze and tone as sincere as possible.

"It's alright, Ms. Shiraishi. I need your advice, and this is absolutely not just a polite remark."

"Perhaps saying this will seem arrogant, but—"

Yu Shiraishi said with a forced smile, "I'm afraid the three artists under Asuka's management can't handle a commercial order like this."

(It feels like I'm talking badly about someone, how annoying!)

Although she began to have doubts, she still explained.

"Judging from the situation at Itomoriya last time, those two backup dancers didn't have enough industry knowledge and probably didn't realize that this was a cushy job."

"As for the lead singer—"

(Hey, that lead singer has a pretty good voice, but he doesn't have much stage experience. If I hadn't been there last time, it would have been a complete disaster.)

"She might not be able to handle this kind of stage —"

(Oh, why am I so bad?)

"clear."

Hiroshi Nakajima nodded.

Yu Shiraishi's concerns are quite valid.

Although the company undoubtedly sees this performance as a way to earn a lot of commission, most artists probably don't see it that way at all.

For newcomers who lack in-depth understanding, performing on a variety show stage means they have no talent, they are low-class, and they are relegated to collaborating with outsiders.

Just like last time when they were promoted from backup dancers to give a speech, the two of them were actually quite pleased with themselves, thinking they were getting some recognition.

"If you may, may I take a look at this email?"

Yu Shiraishi points to a title.

"Recruitment Intent for Maruei Chain Supermarket Opening Ceremony (Event Cooperation, Long-Term)"

Click to open.

Maruei Supermarket is well-known locally, but this reputation is not for its customers.

After all, for most people, no matter how big a supermarket is, it's not as good as a small store that's close to their home.

It is mainly well-known within the entrepreneur community.

One-on-one support from start to finish, with a professional team providing on-site guidance, site selection, setup, and full supply chain support.

Maruei's core business is clearly not supermarkets, but franchise business.

This intention was not announced by the store owner, but was recruited by their upline. Whenever a new supermarket opens, they need to arrange for artists.

In this process, Maruei will most likely also be making money.

The requirements and the rights and responsibilities of both parties are clearly listed, and it seems that they have experienced this kind of cooperation many times before.

The company is responsible for the management and equipment, while Maruei is responsible for the venue and attracting customers, allowing the sale of merchandise related to the artists.

If the performance is good, they can even be affiliated with a brand.

The net profit is split 30/70, with Maruei taking 30% and then making a large profit from the franchisees.

He's really good at business; it's practically like getting something for nothing.

But for small firms, this is actually a pretty good opportunity for collaboration.

On the one hand, for artists who perform in the entertainment industry, this is a collaboration with a large company, which can enhance their resumes.

On the other hand, for the firm, although it means losing 30% of its profits, this is undoubtedly a channel to attract new talent and can reliably monetize its semi-dormant workforce.

After all, Maruei doesn't really pick and choose his artists.

"The sales of merchandise for newcomers are probably not very promising. Compared to the small commission, the brand name might give them a greater positive feedback."

"Furthermore, this could be an opportunity to teach Asuka how to create dreams for her subordinates, but I don't know about the company's side—"

Nakajima Hiroshi was silent for a moment, then tapped the table with his fingertips.

We will definitely contact Maruei's business, but whether or not to give it to Asuka is still up for discussion.

Because once the agreement is reached, it will be a long-term collaboration, and he is worried about whether he can handle the loosening of the Asuka team.

Seeing that Nakajima Hiroshi was considering his options, Shiraishi Yu did not urge him, but simply waited silently.

(I wonder what Mr. Nakajima is hesitating about.)

(It's not good to ask, it seems like I have ulterior motives.)

Yu Shiraishi lacks a sense of worthyness; she always seems to feel that she shouldn't meddle in other people's business.

"I'll contact them later and try to make an appointment to check it out."

The decision was even somewhat rushed.

Nakajima Hiroshi was absolutely unwilling to see her caught in a dilemma.

He was quite certain of this feeling.

"However, Miss Shiraishi."

He directly expressed his concerns: "Ultimately, this is a long-term cooperation opportunity, so some on-the-spot safeguards are necessary."

"I'll do it."

Yu Shiraishi spoke calmly, as if he were stating something perfectly natural.

"After all, most of the new employees in the company are now under my supervision, so this kind of work is only natural."

"it is good."

Very reassuring.

Compared to his concerns about Asuka Hanabikari, when Shiraishi Yu was doing things, Nakajima Hiro didn't even consider the possibility of things going wrong.

The person in charge on Maruei's side was decisive and efficient.

One phone call, and the time was arranged for that afternoon.

They asked Nakajima Hiroshi to bring his model card, certificates, and official seal, implying that they wanted to sign a contract on the spot.

In addition, the other party deliberately mentioned that as long as there is stage experience, newcomers can also try to collaborate.

It's practically an open declaration: as long as things don't go wrong and I can cover my tracks, I don't care what kind of celebrities you're featuring.

Although it may sound hasty, this is how many franchisees operate their businesses.

"Aren't you going to come and take a look?"

Most of the artists in the agency are currently under Yu Shiraishi's management, so this matter will inevitably fall on her shoulders in the future.

"I can come along if you need to."

That's how she stated it.

"However, this job should belong to Watanabe Yukino; she is your assistant."

At the same time, it offers some very pertinent advice.

indeed.

Yu Shiraishi is so useful that I've become somewhat dependent on her.

"That makes sense, we should definitely take Yukino with us."

"Then, Miss Shiraishi, I'll trouble you to look after my house for me."

"By the way, I have two interviews this afternoon. Could you help me with them and put my resume on my desk later?"