Return to Oslo in the spring. Norway is starting to feel like it's coming back.

Participating in next spring's sales meeting at our headquarters on the outskirts of Oslo. This is my second sales meeting.

Sweet Protection won five medals at the PyeongChang Olympics. I don't know why, but I'm sure it's amazing. After all, it was originally a brand that simply made tools for kids in rural Norway to play freely in the mountains.

My ally Bjorn, who has been with me on this year's journey, and his evil brat founder Atre. Atre is also the winner of the Telemark World Championship. I don't know why, but I'm sure it's amazing.

Chris, a salesman who came to Japan this winter, approached me with a serious look on his face.
"Hodaka, I have to start this meeting with some very bad news."
"what?"
"It's really hard to say, but..."
"Okay, I won't be surprised if anything happens."
"..."
“Tell me the truth.”
"Today's company dinner is sushi"
"eh......"
"I'm sorry, I should have noticed."
"eh......"
(True story)

Sales agents from all over Europe. Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Andorra, Italy, Spain. Since Scandinavia accounts for half of the brand's sales, the Scandinavian business is under its own control. Outside of Scandinavia, they are agents.

When I meet them, they are always traveling with each other. I am always exchanging information about new trips with them. They introduce me to the brand, and I introduce it to them as well. They are my colleagues in the true sense of the word, both physically and emotionally.

At the end of the meeting, Bjorn took some time out for the day.
"How was this past year?"
"It's not too bad."
"How about there?"
"Not bad at all."

Spring in Northern Europe is always refreshing. The capital's harbor has a kayak pool with free showers next to it. To be honest, unfortunately, I'm too jealous.

As a thank you for my trip to Japan, Chris invited me to his home for dinner. Playing in the forest at sunset with his child. Play with all your might.
"Even though we don't speak the same language, I'm already attached to Hodaka."
"I like playing with children."
"Kids like people who work hard and see things the same way they do."
"...Is that a compliment?"

I like this city. I'm sure that's because I have a great job with great colleagues.

hodaka