Draft:Edward Sugimoto

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

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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

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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

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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

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  1. ^ "Aloha Revolution: Hawaii Small Business Editor's Choice Award Winner 2023". Hawaii Business Magazine. 2023. Archived from the original on 2023-09-30. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  2. ^ "Here in Hawaiʻi: Ed Sugimoto Interview". Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  3. ^ "About VH07V". Retrieved 2024-03-17.[permanent dead link]
  4. ^ "Sneak Peek at Aloha Revolution's New Kaimukī Store". Honolulu Magazine. May 17, 2024. Archived from the original on 2024-05-18. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  5. ^ "Aloha Revolution Turns Small Online Store into Major Shirt Brand". Hawaii Business Magazine. May 5, 2023. Archived from the original on 2023-09-30. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  6. ^ "Aloha Revolution Opens New Store on Oahu". Pacific Business News. May 17, 2024. Archived from the original on 2024-05-24. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  7. ^ "Local company holding fundraiser for Love's Bakery employees". KHON2. Archived from the original on 2023-03-28. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  8. ^ "Aloha Revolution Opens Flagship Store in Kaimukī". Honolulu Magazine. May 2024. Archived from the original on 2024-03-17. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  9. ^ "Aloha Revolution donates to Maui relief". KHON2. Archived from the original on 2023-08-22. 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. Archived from the original on 2016-06-27. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
  13. ^ "Largest Spam musubi". Guinness World Records. Archived from the original on 2016-06-27. Retrieved 2024-03-17."Largest loco moco". Guinness World Records. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
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