Akemi Takase is a Retail Area Manager for Salomon at Amer Sports Japan, based in Tokyo. Working closely with store managers, she focuses on strengthening collaboration, growing the Salomon fan base, and creating environments where employees can thrive.
Inspired by the opportunity to connect directly with consumers and help teams grow, Akemi built her career in retail before joining Amer Sports. In this interview, she shares what first attracted her to Salomon and Amer Sports, reflects on a memorable community initiative on Mount Fuji, and explains why she is excited about the future of retail and the opportunities it creates for both consumers and employees.
What first sparked your interest in retail, and how did that path lead you to Amer Sports?
What first drew me to retail was the opportunity to interact directly with consumers and see their immediate response to our recommendations and service. In a store, we do more than simply sell products: we can understand each consumer’s goals and lifestyle and recommend the options that suit them best.
As I gained experience, my interests expanded to include store development and team building. I was inspired by Salomon’s innovative products, its passion for sports and the outdoors, and its openness to new challenges. I joined Amer Sports because I wanted to apply my experience in this environment while continuing to grow.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time with Amer Sports?
One of my most memorable experiences was taking part in an initiative with Fujiyoshida City to restore the historic Suzuhara Shrine at the first station of Mount Fuji. Together with my Salomon colleagues, I helped carry dismantled architectural materials, including heavy pillars and beams, down to the foot of the mountain.
It was demanding work, but we encouraged each other and worked as a team. I felt a great sense of fulfillment in contributing to an effort that will preserve the region’s treasured history and culture for future generations. It was an unforgettable experience that showed me how an outdoor brand can contribute directly to local communities and the natural environment.
What excites you most about the future of retail at Salomon in Japan?
As the brand continues to grow, I am especially excited about opening more stores and giving more consumers the opportunity to experience Salomon firsthand. Each new store not only expands the ways in which consumers can connect with the brand, but also creates opportunities to welcome new colleagues and develop the next generation of store managers and leaders.
I see tremendous potential in growing our stores and teams together while staying close to the needs of consumers in each community and delivering a consistently authentic Salomon experience at every location.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in retail?
Retail offers opportunities to gain a wide range of experience, including customer service, store operations, people development, and marketing. I did not have all the answers when I started; I grew by seeking advice from those around me and continuing to take on new challenges. Rather than waiting until everything is perfect, it is important to learn from each experience and express your own views.
What is your favorite product from Amer Sports brands, and why?
My favorite product is GENESIS, one of Salomon’s signature trail running shoes. In addition to its outstanding performance, I love how wearing it inspires me to get outdoors and take on something new. Salomon products reflect the voices of athletes and consumers, expertise developed over many years, and meticulous attention to detail.
