Asics creates new inhouse digital division

By

Olivier Guyot

Published
Oct 5, 2016

Asics is taking its electronic development and digital sports applications seriously. Launching October 1, the Japanese group has created a global digital division, which is slated to work on digital content and innovations.

Leading the new hub from Boston in the U.S., is Jason Jacobs, founder and chief executive of Runkeeper, an application which was acquired by Asics in March.

"We are investing in digital as we reach toward a global model centred on the consumer, all the while applying our founding philosophy of a healthy body and a healthy mind," explained Motoi Oyama, chief executive of Asics Corporation.

"When we acquired Runkeeper, we didn't only inherit a great product and brand, we also took on an incredible team who are helping lead our digital strategy across the whole company."

The group also hopes to become a leader in sports wearables. The new digital division will further develop Runkeeper, but also other applications and Asics' e-commerce, as part of a new digital outlet for consumers and active people to enjoy.

Asics Corporation recorded revenues of more than 428 million yen (3,354 million euros) for fiscal 2015.