American Express weathered the pandemic with a three-legged stool strategy. American Express’ strategy was, and still is, to protect its customers, its people and its brand, according to an interview with CEO Stephen Squeri for the financial paper, Barron’s. American Express’ strategy is brand-business-leadership common sense. Unfortunately, there is less common sense in brand-business leadership these days.
There is another piece of news coming out of Silicon Valley aside from the banking debacle. And, that is Meta’s “year of efficiency” planning. Apparently, Meta’s leader, Mark Zuckerberg, has just discovered the benefits of financial discipline and operational excellence. In his recent memo to Meta employees, Mr. Zuckerberg indicated that this year will require a flatter and leaner organization. These principles are not new. Many enterprises have jiggered with organizational structures and more disciplined...
In 2012, a South Korean performer named Psy posted a video titled “Gangnam Style” on YouTube. Psy’s performance, personality and K-Pop confidence propelled Psy to became the first music artist to reach one billion views on YouTube.
Being a “sustainable brand” has different meanings to different consumers. Some brands are purposefully built around sustainability. “Oatly was born sustainable. Its very existence is the manifestation of their mission. Specifically, to help support ‘a systemic shift toward a sustainable, resilient food system’ . . . to ensure the future of the planet for generations to come.”
Over the past two years, brands raised prices at record rates. In fact, many brands raised prices every quarter over the past two years. Consumers are starting to push back. But, brands, conscious of their margins, are finding ways to raise prices in, shall we say, more creative ways. If the last two years has taught brands anything, it is to be profitable at any cost, even if it is not in the best interest...
