Edward Sugimoto

Edward Sugimoto is an American entrepreneur from O'ahu, Hawaii, best known for founding the apparel brand VH07V, also known as Aloha Revolution. The brand's name, VH07V, is a stylized representation of "ALOHA," highlighting Sugimoto's intention to promote Hawaii's aloha spirit through apparel and accessories.[1]

Early Life

Sugimoto is a second-generation Japanese-American who grew up on the island of O'ahu. His experiences in Hawaii significantly influenced his appreciation for local culture, later becoming a foundational aspect of his professional endeavors.[2]

Career

Sugimoto began his career working for a cable company, where he remained employed for approximately 23 years. During this period, he launched a personal blog highlighting various aspects of Hawaiian life, culture, and community events. The blog's popularity encouraged him to create branded merchandise, eventually leading to the establishment of VH07V.[3][4]

In 2011, Sugimoto transitioned to full-time management of VH07V. The brand subsequently expanded from a modest online store into a recognized local apparel brand known for its distinctive designs and community engagement.[5] In May 2024, Sugimoto opened a flagship retail store in Kaimukī, Honolulu, located in a restored 1928 cottage.[6]

Community Contributions

Sugimoto's VH07V brand actively engages in community-oriented initiatives. Notably, VH07V raised funds through specially designed apparel to support local causes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sugimoto created a Love’s Bakery-inspired T-shirt, raising approximately $55,120 for employees impacted by the bakery's closure in 2021.[7] VH07V also supported Honolulu's Little League World Series team by raising around $15,000 for travel expenses.[8] VH07V has also participated in fundraising efforts for Maui relief,[9] support for businesses impacted by COVID-19,[10] and relief efforts following natural disasters affecting Kauai and the Big Island.[11] Sugimoto has also been involved in setting food-related Guinness World Records. He helped organize efforts that achieved the records for the largest Spam musubi[12] and the largest loco moco.[13]


References

  1. ^ "Aloha Revolution: Hawaii Small Business Editor's Choice Award Winner 2023". Hawaii Business Magazine. 2023. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  2. ^ "Here in Hawaiʻi: Ed Sugimoto Interview". Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  3. ^ "About VH07V". Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  4. ^ "Sneak Peek at Aloha Revolution's New Kaimukī Store". Honolulu Magazine. May 17, 2024. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  5. ^ "Aloha Revolution Turns Small Online Store into Major Shirt Brand". Hawaii Business Magazine. May 5, 2023. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  6. ^ "Aloha Revolution Opens New Store on Oahu". Pacific Business News. May 17, 2024. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  7. ^ "Local company holding fundraiser for Love's Bakery employees". KHON2. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  8. ^ "Aloha Revolution Opens Flagship Store in Kaimukī". Honolulu Magazine. May 2024. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  9. ^ "Aloha Revolution donates to Maui relief". KHON2. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  10. ^ "Buy Hawaii, Give Aloha". KHON2. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  11. ^ "VH07V for Big Island and Kauai residents recently affected". Big Island Now. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  12. ^ "Largest Spam musubi". Guinness World Records. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  13. ^ "Largest Spam musubi". Guinness World Records. Retrieved 2024-03-17."Largest loco moco". Guinness World Records. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
Allikas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Sugimoto
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