EQD's approach to management has a humanity that's truly appealing. Whether in Japan or the United States, I've been involved in business, and it's rare to find companies with that human touch. Many are focused solely on efficiency and profit. EQD has an organizational structure that allows for interesting things to happen. They prioritize finding things interesting, and everyone on the staff values the idea of enjoying what they do. While the company has its goals and objectives, the driving force seems to be more about enjoyment than profit. However, this doesn't mean neglecting business management. Taking care of profits and financial aspects is crucial to maintaining the essence of such a company in the long run.

Taka Tozawa

Jamie and Julie, the founders, act like magnets, drawing people in, and each individual turns their work into a personal business. It's not just a company where people gather; rather, people come together and form the company. It's a peculiar collective at EQD—neither just a company nor a family. The closest comparison might be a "band.”

They essentially make the products by hand, no outsourcing. Even screen printing is done in-house. It's "100% Made in Akron." Not many companies do this kind of thing. Inefficient? They understand that it's necessary to achieve higher quality, so that's why they do it.

Akron, where EQD is based, may be rural, but it's a really cool place to be. It's a town with a lot of potential where various things can happen. The cost of living is low, and there's not unnecessary competition, allowing you to do what you want. I live in San Francisco, and honestly, it's not the most livable place. Also, there are many people here who feel cool even if they are not. I have confidence that I can be Taka Tozawa anywhere, and there's no one in Akron who lives in the city and has misconceptions.

EQD holds an event called "EQD Day" every August in Akron, and even local people or those unfamiliar with musical instruments come wearing EQD's T-shirts to join in the fun. There are even teenagers. That's really something. "Culture" is something in people's hearts and memories. In my opinion, companies that value culture give back to people. That's why we organize events for the community, go on tours abroad with musicians, and the people we meet there carry the culture forward.