2024: The Year of New Brands? (August Newsletter)
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Change is upon us, I think we all agree. Consumer behavior has switched from products to services and travel, leaving traditional Big Brands high on inventory and very low on sales. Interconnectivity across the spectrum of the global population has made access to all brands possible. Ecomm sales as a percent of total retail is up substantially. Global distribution services have never been easier or more accessible. San Diego has traditionally been the boiling cauldron of entrepreneurism and new businesses...Rubio’s, Reef, Uggs, prAna and Vuori, Callaway and TaylorMade, Spy, HookIt, Sun Bum, Electra, Liquid Force, Events.com…all major market disruptors. And the market is ripe now for a repeat of creative new brand birthing. Is it possible Big Brands are “out” and small new brands are in? The barriers are down and opportunity is up. Have a friend poised to start a new business, but worried about timing or how to do it? We can help. http://www.sdsportinnovators.org/accelerator-program
SDSI Views From the Bus - Dana Rowley SDSI Accelerator
In this episode, we meet Dana Rowley, a prominent figure in San Diego's business scene. Dana directs the SDSI Business Accelerator, which has help given rise to over 140 emerging brands in the city. If launching one brand is a challenge, imagine kickstarting 140 – a truly remarkable feat. This episode is tailor-made for young business founders standing at a crossroad. Whether you're try to figure out how to get to scale, you're faced with a major pivot, looking for help with strategy with marketing or organizational issues, or maybe need gateways into the financial community. Whatever the reason, entrepreneurs and young business founder take a listen here.
SDSI Welcomes New Member VATIV Media
We are happy to welcome VATIV Media to the SDSI member community. VATIV is a well known South California content marketing company specializing in Sport and Active lifestyle Brands. Connor O'Brien, Director of Marketing for VATIV says it best: “our focus is on authentic, compelling brands. We use our expertise to merge creativity with strategy, and tell compelling brand stories across the digital landscape.” Check out some of VATIV Media's amazing work here.
SDSI Welcomes New Member Old Glory
One of the biggest business topics in the SDSI community revolves around the necessity to begin “on shoring” manufacturing. “All the eggs in the China basket” has its risks. We have noted for years that Mexico can be the new China: its 16 hours closer and has rising capabilities. Last quarter Mexican imports exceeded China for the first time ever. If you are thinking on shoring, connect with Brandon Hearn, Managing Partner of Old Glory LLC, a California managed, Mexico based, manufacturing company that can help your business with manufacturing/engineering and supply chain/logistic services. Plastic injection, metal fabrication, textiles, custom glass, beverage cans, and other Mexico based supply chain solutions are to just name a few. To check out their full list of services, or to connect, click here.
Happy Hour September 14th - Thank you OUTFRONT!
As all native San Diegans know, our Summer is just beginning, as the marine layer recedes and balmy evenings ensue. So plan to join the SDSI Happy Hour, Thursday September 14th 5:00pm, at the SDSI HQ here in Solana Beach. It's open to everyone who is interested in bringing their company into our community. These events are true “mixers” with SDSI members, mentors and guests. Great networking, super fun as well! RSVP for the event here! A big thanks you to OUTFRONT Media for sponsoring this Happy Hour, for the tasty tacos, and cold drinks!
