No stopping Anta

Tomorrow, the world’s third largest sports group Anta will open its sixth store in Metro Manila, unmindful of the pandemic and determined to make a mark as a brand that’s here to stay. The launch is scheduled at noon on the second level of Trinoma with J. P. Paglinawan, Anta’s country general manager, delivering the news that it’s all systems go to address the market’s growing demand for affordable, high-tech and fashionable sports accessories, apparel and footwear in basketball, running, cross-training and lifestyle with a price range of P3,500 to P5,000. “Anta is positioned as an authentic sports brand focusing on mass market and provides the best value-for-money products to consumers,” he noted.

Anta’s presence is evident at SM Megamall, SM Aura, Ayala Cloverleaf, Eastwood City and Uptown BGC and now at Trinoma, its network has gotten even stronger. For those who may not have noticed, super WBA welterweight champion Sen. Manny Pacquiao wears Anta and so do NBA players Klay Thompson and Gordon Hayward. In 2017, Thompson signed a 10-year endorsement deal with Anta and it’s estimated to bring in $80 million to his bank account with incentives.  Thompson is on his sixth generation of signature Anta shoe and when he returns to action, expect a seventh to celebrate his comeback. In 2018, Hayward came to terms on a four-year contract with Anta.

Paglinawan said Anta’s footwear isn’t just comfortable and durable but also extremely fashionable. “Our shoes come in different colors, some loud like bright red, orange, pink, yellow and green,” he pointed out. “We cater to a large market, including the youth that likes trendy colors. We’ve been in the business for 30 years or since 1991 and in China, there are over 11,000 Anta stores, the most of any brand.” If history is the yardstick, there’s no doubt Anta is invested in the future. Its growth has been phenomenal and Anta is now available in stores in over 30 countries in four continents. Last year, Anta reported total sales amounting to over $5 billion.

Since its inception, Anta has partnered with stars like Kevin Garnett, Rajon Rondo, Jelena Jankovic and Chandler Parsons. In China, Anta’s endorsers include seven-continent marathoner Chen Penbin, football’s Zheng Zhi, tennis’ Zheng Jie and boxer Zou Shiming and the brand supports over 28,000 coaches and athletes. In 2014, it became NBA China’s official marketing partner. Anta has been the Chinese Olympic Committee’s official sportswear partner for over nine years.

Paglinawan said Anta’s unique Smart SAM technology is what sets it apart from the competition. The system is a product of Anta’s sports science laboratory which was the first of its kind in China when it was launched in 2005. The lab has more than 100 scientists and technical managers with hook-ups in seven design centers around the world, so far producing over 1,100 patents. “The Smart SAM refers to the shock absorption molecule and the fluid, bullet-proof materials that can absorb 99.4 percent of impact to reduce the burden on ankles and knees,” he explained. “It’s part of what we call the 3D Flow System with the 3D Hug support module. We use carbon fiber material and mountain-wave ridges on the outsole.”