All brands at some point face a crossroad, as to how and where continued growth will be sustained on a regional or global scale. Fortunately those who have an established a system for driving their creative engine, and have implemented an operational excellence platform allowing them to bring innovative concepts to reality will succeed. This system does not stop at commercialization, as it is integral that the timing of product releases be driven by your need to establish, build and sustain long term growth. In other words, your product “Pipeline” is integral to your sustainability as a brand.
This “Pipeline” is your system, and one which ties the threads of the overall company together and allows it to function as a team and run on all cylinders. Without a truly “Innovative” driven ideation, product creation process that allows Designers the freedom to breath and create, you will be challenged to look forward for fear of who is behind you. You know you have arrived, and have established a system for long term success, when you do not care who is behind you, but rather focus on chasing down the prize that is in front of you. Conquer those that “choose” to stand still. Remember you may be on the right track, but if you choose to stand still you will get run over…!
Build a Product “Pipeline”..
Stay True to the Brand..
Sustain a Long Term Vision..
Do not Stand Still..!
Enjoy the Ride.!
Bryan Smeltzer
Bryansmeltzer.com
@bryansmeltzer
“Product Innovation & Marketing Success Blog..”
The author
I have a passion for living balanced life and a strong faith...each equally important for thriving and excelling…I love crushing mountain bike trails, exploring and finding ways to grow beyond the “status quo”. I am a dedicated, innovation driven team leader with a passion for establishing a disruptive vision and executing a market dominating strategy… Our industry has always been about creating innovative, market driving solutions that enhance performance or provide for a better life beyond sport. It has also been about culture, fit and passion for the brand. When these foundational pillars are removed, the brand starts to crumble. Being part of an industry that bridges talent between product creation, marketing, sales, finance and operations is formula for success, because every function is about building a foundational performance brand. It’s galvanizing when elite athletes wear and endorse our creations, but the real strength is leading the teams that combine their creative forces and technical expertise to make the engine roar. I am always passionate for defining and leading the next industry revolution… Extensive executive level experience across globally recognized brands, each number one in their respective markets, along with having founded and successfully sold my own branded apparel company. Whether establishing new product lines, building global marketing strategies, leading design/development teams, I have a passion for building and growing brands. Some examples; • Built Zamst from start up to achieving nationwide North American distribution, and 845% revenue growth over a 3 1/2 year period. • With Gathering Storm, grew TaylorMade/adidas Golf Accessories from $11M to $48M over 3 years. • K-Swiss, global executive management of $38M in international licensee’s and domestic apparel/accessories division. • OAKLEY, built and successfully developed “Athletic Division” NCAA licensed team eyewear/apparel product lines achieving $1.4M in initial season.