Meet Abid Latif

By Stephanie Davis

Each month IBI’s “Inside Line” highlights a team member from one of our loyal advertisers. It’s always fun to learn a little something new about people who make things happen at their company and for the industry. This month we talked with Abid Latif, Director of Sales at Expert Hosiery.

IBI: How long have you been in the bowling and entertainment industry?

Abid: I have been serving these industries since 2008.

IBI: How long have you been with Expert Hosiery and what is your current position?

Abid: I have been with Expert Hosiery since 2006. I’m the Director of Sales.

IBI: What makes Expert Hosiery unique?

Abid: Our motto is, “Tell us what you need, and we’ll try to make it happen.” We have an attitude of service to our customers and the community. We work with charities such as Assistance League and local organizations that find work for the disabled. In bowling, we partner with Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL) which is a very rewarding experience.

IBI: What new programs or initiatives is Expert Hosiery working on?

Abid: Themed socks are our new focus to help bowlers heighten the bowler experience and make memories on the lanes. Our bowling-themed socks are used by high school bowling teams as part of their uniform. Themed socks have been a great addition to help with local community fundraising. If a customer makes a donation to an organization and gets a pair of socks, it’s a positive

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We have been partnering with BVL for several years. We have two styles of BVL logo socks that can be sold at tournaments to raise donations for veterans. Center donations are used to give new socks to veterans through the Veteran’s Administration.

IBI: What do you like most about your job?

Abid: I feel blessed that I enjoy every aspect of my job, from sales and marketing to product development. I enjoy seeing friendly faces at the many trade shows I attend and working with our customers. My favorite part about my work is that we work as a family business.

IBI: What is one habit, technique, or strategy that you employ at work to keep you organized and on-task?

Abid: Funny, you say that. I learned something about staying on task that has helped me a lot. If a task or intrusion will take a couple of minutes, then I knock it out. Otherwise, I will wait and do it after my main tasks and priorities.

IBI: How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working?

Abid: I like to be out in nature. I live in North Carolina and find it very beautiful. I like to take care of my yard and visit with my neighbors. I enjoy reading biographies, thrillers, and suspense novels. I just finished the novel “Hail Mary” by Andy Weir and thoroughly enjoyed it.

IBI: What would our readers be surprised to learn about you?

Abid: I’m a huge ice hockey fan and very excited that the Carolina Hurricanes have rebuilt well. I want my team to win, but for entertainment value, I enjoy a close game.