Recognizing a successful partnership and dedication to provide high quality footwear to running enthusiasts throughout the Pacific Northwest, Norm Daniels, President and CEO of G.I. Joe’s, named Asics, Inc. of Irvine, California as its 2006 Vendor of the Year. In addition, Doug Williams of RPS Marketing was named as the company’s 2006 Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year.

Asics makes high performance, technically advanced shoes to help athletes achieve their goals. The company name is an acronym for the Latin phrase “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano”, meaning “Sound Mind In A Sound Body”. This phrase forms the basis of the company’s commitment to consistency, innovation, quality and originality.

Daniels commented, “Asics has earned an excellent reputation for performance among joggers and runners, and having their products in our stores allows us to differentiate ourselves from mass merchants that attempt to compete with us. Asics gives our customers absolute quality for their money, which helps to make G.I. Joe’s a more prestigious place to shop.”

Bob Myers, Shoe Buyer at G.I. Joe’s, added, “As a vendor, Asics deserves the highest marks across the board, from shipping to inventory to in-store presentation to new product introductions. They handle themselves in a truly professional manner, and are a pleasure to work with.”

John Kraus for Asics said in response, “Asics is proud to receive the Vendor of the Year Award from a great retailer and business partner like G.I. Joe’s. It’s a special honor, because we know there were many other top brands competing to win it.”

Doug Williams of RPS Marketing was named as the company’s 2006 Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year.
The award is given annually to the manufacturer’s representative who contributes to increasing profitable sales at G.I. Joe’s by providing outstanding service, attention to detail, and superior follow-through throughout an entire year.

“The manufacturer’s rep is important to our success because they also represent G.I. Joe’s to the manufacturer. A great rep like Doug can often make the difference between being an outlet for a product and being a preferred vendor,” Daniels said.

“The manufacturer’s reps work hard to win this award, because it gives them ‘bragging rights’ among their peers and competitors for the entire year; including an assigned parking space close to the main entrance of our office,” said Ron Menconi, Vice President and Director of Marketing and Merchandising at G.I. Joe’s.

Chad Farthing, Automotive Buyer at G.I. Joe’s, cited Doug’s integrity and capacity for hard work on several important brands, including Alltrade Tools, Blue Magic Wash & Wax, and 76 Motor Oil. “As rep for several ATV/motorcycle and marine accessory lines, Doug has also been instrumental in the huge growth we’ve experienced in our power sports category over the last couple of years.”

Norm Daniels went on to mention, “Doug is the latest in a group of independent business people who have contributed to the success of our company by professionally representing great brands and products that our customer want.” Doug Williams thanked G.I. Joe’s for the award saying, “I’m really pleased to receive this award. I’ve worked with Joe’s for years, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead which will take their sales to even higher levels.”