Business to brand: How Christine Chung transformed her family's company

When it comes to American denim, heritage mainstays like Levi’s and Wrangler often come to mind. In the manufacturing hub of Los Angeles, Just Panmaco Inc. have been at the helm of local denim production since the early ‘80s and have since sprouted three sister brands under their umbrella: Just USA, Just Black Denim, and Just Black. Christine Chung, VP of Marketing, has been a key force in keeping her family’s 30 year business alive and well. Founded by Chung’s parents in 1983, the Korea-born entrepreneurs decided to delve into denim for the competitive edge it would give them, as few companies existed in that fashion category. Among the three subsidiaries, their denim method is traditional and craftsmanship-focused, maintaining close relationships with local vendors and creating new patterns for every pair of jeans. After working for major fashion companies like Tommy Hilfiger and Kate Spade, Chung left New York City’s corporate world to join the family business upon noticing a shift from high business to small batch. “My parents have grown this business for almost forty years, and I felt in my heart it was the right synergy to work together with them,” said Chung. “It’s a true family business.”