SOLE announced a new partnership with John Akana and his team at ANH International Marketing Group, who will be representing the footbed brand in Hawaii. ANH was founded by Akana in 1991 and has worked with category leaders on the islands.
“I’ve sold against SOLE for years and it wasn’t easy, so I’m really excited to be selling SOLE and giving the end consumer, and my retail partners, the superior insole they want and deserve,” said Akana.
“The Hawaiian islands represent a significant opportunity for SOLE now and into the future as our line expands,” said SOLE’s Director of US Sales, Zachary Osness. “Having a dedicated team of locals on the islands with a proven track record of superior service and sales is the focus the brand needs to penetrate this market in a meaningful way.”
Osness is particularly excited about working with Akana, stating, “Akana’s pre-existing relationships across multiple trade channels and previous experience selling footbeds means his team will be able to hit the ground running. With his intimate knowledge of the market, we have already begun discussing opportunities to best partner with Hawaiian retailers.”
Akana attributes his success in growing brand recognition in Hawaii to service and follow-through on all levels. This is done through brand and product education for retail partners and marketing and events for consumers. ANH also currently represents KEEN footwear, Hestra Gloves, Pacsafe Travel Bags and Skins Compression, among other brands.
