As I have previously discussed, brands can either “ride out” their success, or they can create a “new wave”. Most prefer to ride their wave out, or catch someone else’s. It is the fearless brand that takes chances, and some may hit the rocks occasionly, but when they “catch” a wave it is usually a monster.
It is risk tasking that allows you to search for your blue ocean, and not delve into the bloody waters infested with other sharks. This blood bath may feed your product engine for a period of time, but you must always look to create your own wave. Many catch others ideas, and create a better method, process or products, but you must find that wave which everyone talks about long after the sun has gone down. Search and you will find. At some point your hard work will pay off, and you and the entire brand will be richer for it. Keep searching for the next great wave, it is out there and is those that discover it first who will be remembered !
Always look for the next wave.. !
Always ride it, but then start searching..!
Always strive to be first, the waves are fresh and the ocean blue..!
Enjoy the Ride !
Bryan Smeltzer
bryansmeltzer.com
@bryansmeltzer
LiquidMindsite.com
“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.