About Us

Our Story:

    VertMerch was founded with a clear vision: to revolutionize the way artists and fans connect through merchandise. As a team of music industry veterans and passionate advocates for artists, we saw a common challenge—merchandising was often a cumbersome, risky, and expensive endeavor that distracted creatives from their art. Determined to change this landscape, we created VertMerch, a service that simplifies merchandise sales and makes them more profitable and accessible for everyone involved in the creative process.

    Founder Reid Shigemura brings a diverse and rich background to VertMerch, blending expertise in lutherie, fabrication, and media production. With 25 years spent mastering the craft of guitar making, Reid developed a keen understanding of artists' needs and the intricacies of creating bespoke items that carry a personal touch. His tenure at Oahu Makerspace further honed his skills in fabrication, where he embraced the possibilities of combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.

    Reid also spent nearly a decade in local television production learning everything from camera work, audio, and editing; to directing and producing. All this helped to ingrain in him a deep appreciation for storytelling and the power of media to connect people.

    These experiences cemented his abilities and resolve to build a platform where artists' narratives could be celebrated through innovative marketing and merchandise solutions, without the logistical nightmares typically associated with merch sales.

Mission and Vision:

    At VertMerch, we believe in supporting the creative community by removing barriers to selling high-quality, custom merchandise. Our platform empowers artists to design and sell their merchandise directly to fans, with little to no upfront costs and no need to handle inventory. We take care of everything from production to shipping, allowing creatives to focus on what they do best—creating unforgettable art and performances.

Commitment to Community and Innovation:

    VertMerch is a community of creators, fans, and innovators. We are committed to continually improving our platform and services, ensuring they remain accessible, user-friendly, and above all, beneficial to the creative communities we serve. By integrating feedback from our users and staying ahead of technological advancements, we strive to keep our service at the forefront of the merchandising industry.

    Join us on this exciting journey at VertMerch, where your merchandise is just a scan away. Together, we'll continue to build a world where creativity thrives, unencumbered by the constraints of traditional merchandising.