The maekake is a traditional Japanese waist apron with a history rooted in both functionality and commerce branded with Cmartys Jerk Smoke Logo.

• The forerunner of the maekake was the homaekake, or "sailcloth apron".

• It originated during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), when fishermen fashioned sturdy work aprons from old sailcloth. 

• The maekake became a fixture in Japanese culture as the uniform for tradespeople and merchants.

• Sake and soy sauce brewers, rice dealers, and other shop staff wore aprons made of thick cotton canvas.

• The aprons were often dyed with traditional indigo blue and printed with the company's logo, turning the workwear into a form of branding and advertising.