Archive by Author

sound photo-1572932491814-4833690788ad

What Does A Luxury Brand Sound Like?

Not too long ago, although it seems like ages since we could attend conferences in person, I met a senior marketing executive from Farmers Insurance who told me that when his team was first presented with the Farmers jingle, they hated it. “Too hokey!” is what he said. But their vote was overridden by more […]

Outer Teak Collection outdoor furniture

The Outdoor Furniture Market Is Broken. Outer Aims to Fix It.

Outer is a small company with big ambitions. Selling only a narrow range of outdoor furniture and furnishings – teak, wicker and aluminum outdoor sofas, chairs and seating combinations, plus a selection of outdoor pillows, rugs, coffee tables and cushions – Outer aims to be the first brand consumers think of when planning their outdoor […]

Comments Off on The Outdoor Furniture Market Is Broken. Outer Aims to Fix It. Continue Reading →
Gary_Friedman_Portrait

Gary Friedman’s RH Earnings Calls Are a Lesson in How To Think Differently about Retail

Quarter-after-quarter RH keeps delivering incredible results. It could almost get boring, but it never is.Gary Friedman’s earnings call should be required listening for every leader or aspiring leader in retail today, not so much to learn about RH but to sit at the feet of an inspiring, retail visionary. More than a brand, more than […]

Comments Off on Gary Friedman’s RH Earnings Calls Are a Lesson in How To Think Differently about Retail Continue Reading →
Fashion Shopping

Fashion Prices Are Rising Fast, Threatening the Recovery of this Struggling Market

Dressing the kids to go back-to-school, not to mention yourself to get back-to-work, will cost more this year.Overall, the consumer price index for apparel rose 4.2% from August 2020 through August 2021. Fortunately for parents, children’s clothing prices advanced less, up 1.4% for boys and 2.8% for girls. But new kid’s shoes will cost 5.9% […]

Comments Off on Fashion Prices Are Rising Fast, Threatening the Recovery of this Struggling Market Continue Reading →
corporate gifts photo-1608755727748-dfa2e44f255b

Corporate Gifting Caught Fire This Past Year

In normal times, corporate gifting is a routine cost of doing business. It’s used to recognize employees and strengthen relationships with clients or partners. But it took on new urgency as a result of the pandemic.With company staff dispersed, a well-chosen gift became a way to keep employees connected and reward them for work performance […]