ABC-MART Launches 'ABC STAFF PROJECT': Developing 'Genuine' Shoes Based on Real Staff Feedback via 1-Million-Step Verification

ABC-MART is launching a new project, 'ABC STAFF PROJECT,' dedicated to creating 'genuine' footwear based on real feedback from store and headquarters staff.

As the first lineup certified with the 'Honki-jirushi' (Genuine Mark) after thorough staff verification, a total of three models—loafer sneakers and sandals—will be available at ABC-MART stores nationwide and the official online store starting April 24 (Friday).

●URL: https://www.abc-mart.net/shop/pages/abc-staff-project.aspx

About 'ABC STAFF PROJECT' Verified by ABC-MART Staff through 1 Million Steps 'ABC STAFF PROJECT' is an initiative where staff from over 1,000 ABC-MART stores nationwide act as advocates for customers, actually wearing and testing products to develop footwear that truly supports the wearer.

Store staff, who serve an average of 3,000 customers annually, wear the products during their daily duties for a continuous period, reaching a total of 1 million steps in verification. Improvements are made based on the actual physical sensations and opinions gathered during real-use environments, such as during customer service movements and long walks.

Footwear that has successfully passed this exhaustive verification process is awarded the 'Honki-jirushi' (Genuine Mark) as proof of its quality and then commercialized. ABC-MART remains committed to 'genuine' shoe-making in the future.

[How a 'Genuine' Pair is Made] STEP 1. Selection: Selecting shoes to be developed based on voices from customers and staff, from classic shoes to trend styles. STEP 2. Verification: Based on sample products, staff from stores to headquarters wear them continuously during daily activities to verify comfort and usability. STEP 3. Analysis: Feedback is gathered from the testing staff. Discussions and verifications are conducted on a 'true intention' basis for development. STEP 4. Development & Commercialization: Shoes improved through thorough verification reach customers as 'Honki' certified footwear!

First Product Lineup Certified with 'Honki-jirushi' [Loafer Sneakers] Developed based on staff requests for a neat design that isn't 'too much of a sneaker.' Challenges such as 'good looks but slippery' or 'discomfort after long wear' were addressed by improving grip and foot contact. A spacious toe area ensures a comfortable fit. These shoes balance a sneaker's comfort for long walks with a design suitable for polished styling. - Product: W1052 QS KNIT LOAFER SNK - Price: 6,490 yen (incl. tax) - Colors: ALL BLACK, ALMOND, MINT - Sizes: 22.5cm - 25cm

[Sandals] Developed based on requests for stable hands-free sandals. Issues like 'difficulty putting on due to the opening getting caught' were resolved by redesigning the structure. Fitting at the heel was adjusted to fit more foot types stably. The use of cool-contact material ensures comfort even in summer. - Product: S0061 QS CODE SANDAL / S0060 QS STRAP SANDAL - Price: 6,490 yen (incl. tax) - Colors: BLACK, BROWN / BLACK, NAVY - Sizes: 24cm - 29cm

Company Profile Name: ABC-MART, Inc. Representative: Kiichiro Hattori Location: 48th Floor, Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower, 1-3-1 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0041 Established: June 6, 1985 Business: Retail of footwear, clothing, and sundries; product planning, manufacturing, and sales of shoes.