New Client – Global Sportswear Brand Mizuno

ASPIRE PR APPOINTED BY GLOBAL SPORTSWEAR BRAND MIZUNO, TO DRIVE BRAND GROWTH AND AWARENESS ACROSS THE UK

Aspire PR – the UK’s leading PR and communications agency specialising in the active lifestyle space – has been appointed by MIZUNO to drive brand growth and awareness across the UK. A 120 year-old global sportswear brand born in Osaka, Japan in 1906, MIZUNO has earnt an enviable reputation across the globe through its relentless innovation, quality without compromise, and deep understanding of what drives performance.

The brief focuses on the brand’s growing and evolving running segment, with a particular emphasis on footwear. The remit is to elevate the brand’s new era of footwear innovation by driving consistent earned media visibility and culturally relevant storytelling across the UK.

Aspire’s strategy will prioritise a multi-channel earned approach, tapping into cultural and creative insights to maximise impact. Alongside this, Aspire will provide ongoing strategic counsel to support the growth of the wider brand community. The approach will fully leverage opportunities around race events, product launches and compelling brand storytelling.

Commenting on the appointment, Graham Johnson, MIZUNO UK marketing manager said: “I’ve known and followed Aspire for many years, particularly its credentials within the running footwear space. From the early discussions with the team, covering our brand and PR objectives, it was clear they genuinely understand the run landscape and what we’re aiming to achieve. Their specific experience across running, combined with their broader expertise, gives us real confidence that they can deliver the cut-through we need across multiple channels. We’re excited to partner with them to strengthen awareness, credibility and engagement for MIZUNO in the UK.”

Layla Smith, Aspire’s founder and managing director, added: “Starting 2026 with a partnership of this calibre sets a strong tone for the year ahead. Our experience helping brands scale, build loyal communities, and reach new audiences means we know how to amplify awareness and momentum while staying true to a brand’s DNA and performance credibility. It puts us in an excellent position to support MIZUNO as it enters its next chapter of growth. MIZUNO’s heritage, authenticity and expert in-house team make it a standout fit for our client portfolio, and we’re excited to deliver meaningful impact in the year ahead and beyond.”

For more information about MIZUNO visit: www.emea.mizuno.com