The reason for the Marion Crepes collab characters this time around is that, despite saying it's a starway 10th collab, it's part of a series of releases celebrating the 10th anniversary of Akari's generation! They've even started using the fan term "Akarigen" officially!
It's a throwback to both Akari's first days as an idol (hence the torte coords) and Ichigo passing off the torch. Since it's Akarigen, they featured Luminas, and since Ichigo's there, Yurika & Mikuru compliment Sumire & Hinaki as their own inspiration regarding idols or brands :D
Oh, nice! I didnt clock that they were related, that's awesome! I knew about the Akari generation stuff - even picked up some merch since I was in Japan a few weeks ago. They also did the Joysound karaoke collaboration which also featured primarily Akari gen characters (+Mizuki and Ichigo). Absolutely fantastic time to be the biggest fan of Akari generation for me. Although, I cant help but wonder whether you sent this to the right blog, as it was the original poster who commented on the different characters not being pon pon image girls, I was quite happy with it XD but yes, Ichigo and Yurika I am still assuming get to be part again for both reasons - very popular characters so merch sells easily, and also the passing of the baton.
