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Georgia-based shoe company brand creates over 300 jobs in Gwinnett County

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Gov. Brian P. Kemp announced on Thursday that Okabashi Brands Inc., a Georgia-based shoe company, will create 340 new jobs as it reinvests in and grows its facility in Gwinnett County.

Okabashi Brands will invest over $20 million over the next five years, and the renovations will add new manufacturing lines and increase production by 100%. Okabashi is hiring for positions in manufacturing and distribution.

Okabashi Brands, a family-owned and women-led shoe company based in Buford, Georgia, was established in 1984. The Georgia Made-certified company has sold over 35 million pairs of shoes directly to major retailers and major contract manufacturing customers.

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The company is one of the 1% of footwear manufacturers operating in the U.S. today.

The brand aims to be environmentally friendly with its recycled shoes. Okabashi sandals are 100% recyclable and contain an average 25% of recycled content. They are recognized by the USDA BioPreferred Program and are made of 45% soy by weight.

Okabashi Brands CEO, Sara Irvani, said the brand dates back to the 1980s.

“Okabashi Brands’ commitment to our community and its people is one that dates back to the 1980s, when my grandfather chose to bring his footwear manufacturing background to Georgia,” said Irvani.

Irvani added that the company is thrilled to be contributing to the local economy through this expansion.

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Gov. Kemp said that Georgia’s leaders are proud that Okabashi calls the Peach State home.

“We’re proud Okabashi calls the Peach State home, and we look forward to their continued growth,” said Kemp.

As part of its long history of philanthropy, Okabashi Brands has donated over 100,000 pairs of shoes both directly and through a partnership with nonprofit Soles4Souls.

Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson said the brand represents the Gwinnett standard.

“Okabashi Brands epitomizes the Gwinnett Standard, excelling in integrity, service, and stewardship,” said Hendrickson.

Okabashi is part of the state’s Georgia Made program. The program was created in 2019 to celebrate the people and industries that manufacture a wide variety of products across the state.

To learn more and apply, click here.

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