The driving force behind sneaker care brand Jason Markk, introducing Jason Mark Angsuvarn

Any devoted sneaker aficionado should already be well acquainted with shoe specialist Jason Markk; held in high regard worldwide for keeping your kicks looking superbly box-fresh, the revered brand and its vast array of sneaker care products have successfully conquered the footwear industry and kudos to the label for doing so, it’s certainly no mean feat.

And as people continue to reap the rewards of Jason Markk products on a global stage, one talented individual is quietly driving its milestones from within the wings. So without further ado, allow Aphrodite to introduce you to the eponymous founder and president of Jason Markk, Jason Mark Angsuvarn. We recently caught up with the lauded entrepreneur and sneakerhead to discuss the perks [and obstacles] of being your own boss, as well as all things business.

First of all, you may be wondering how the ball got rolling for the proud Southern California creative, let us digest… No longer satisfied with having to use make-shift household cleaning products – that would often contain harmful chemicals, therefore, running the risk of damaging a shoe’s lustre – Jason Mark Angsuvarn set about finding a chemist that could execute his vision for a “sneaker cleaning solution that was not only effective but most importantly, safe to use on all materials.”

He explains, “after months of both product and brand development, I officially launched Jason Markk in January of 2007.”

Jason Markk’s professional debut was not only a declaration of ingenuity from Jason himself but for the brand too as it strived to close a gap within the market. Thanks to a loyal fan base of collectors and enthusiasts, the Jason Markk cleaning solution became an instant hit, allowing for rapid commercial expansion, spanning everything from Jason Markk Quick Wipes, Repel Spray, suede buffers and a myriad more items.

Having grown exponentially in those first few years, Jason fast found himself at the helm of a budding sneaker care empire but for an individual who prides himself on being a purveyor of pristine kicks, Angsuvarn is remarkably chilled when playfully quizzed over whether first impressions really do count.

“I try not to judge anyone by how dirty their sneakers are or what they’re wearing, but truthfully I think it’s human nature unfortunately to form an opinion. At the end of the day, they’re just shoes and clothes. Get to know the person, keep an open mind, listen, and you may be surprised.”

With obvious intent, Jason Markk’s impressive portfolio awakens a sense of sustainability. Until recently, the industry’s carbon footprint has remained somewhat of a taboo topic, however, as textile waste has continued to soar of late, it’s evident that moves need to be made to address it. Though just one solution to a much wider issue, sneaker care aims to extend the lifespan of your cherished footwear collection and Jason is proud to be bolstering the movement.

“Sustainability has always been considered in everything we do since the beginning. It’s something that’s important to me personally, and as a company, it’s a priority for continuous improvement” states Jason.

When he’s not doing his bit to save the planet, Jason Mark Angsuvarn soaks up the fruits of his labour at the brand’s Los Angeles HQ, which brings with it its own perks and sometimes, challenges. “The freedom and flexibility are what I enjoy most about being my own boss. That said, when you are running your own company, especially in the early stage, you are never not working.

“There is always a trade-off, but for me, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

A savvy state of mind is everything when it comes to business and it’s something Jason has no problem possessing, but with the current states of affairs and a global pandemic to contend with, we’re particularly impressed with his brand’s aptitude for keeping consumers engaged. During lockdown ‘Jason Markk Public Radio’ debuted as a soothing source of entertainment for the extra time we found on our hands. The professional offshoot delivers curated playlists by friends and family of JM with its roots grounded firmly in community and culture.

“JMPR is an idea we’ve had for years, but it kept getting pushed to the back burner since we’ve been so busy. With the lockdown, we thought it was the perfect time to finally make it happen. It seems like everyone at JM either DJs or produces beats or is just plain musically inclined. Same goes for many of our close friends and family of JM, so it just made sense. I’m glad you’re tuning in and enjoying it!”

And enjoying it we are, but while we kick back and mellow out to the music, Jason is keen to apply his entrepreneurial wisdom to 2020’s unprecedented moments; past, present and future.

“Given the current global pandemic, nothing is what it used to be – for anyone. I will say that we have used this time wisely, and have bonded (even more) as a unit. My team and global family are the best in the world, and even in the midst of a pandemic, I think we are all excited and pumped for the next chapter of JM.”

Stay tuned to see what’s next for the Cali’ company and in the meantime restore your kicks to pristine condition with our expansive Jason Markk range.

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