Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) – an absolute change in strategy?!

Source: http://strategyonline.ca/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MEC5.jpg

MEC is a store that displays a sprawling selection of products of outdoor categories such as hiking, biking, etc… Currently, it has been re-positioning its focus and message of having an active lifestyle by segmenting each activity in store with a set of motivations and aspirations. I think that this is an effective method in appealing towards the customers because it has considered the different perspectives of many consumers in terms of how they view the products. In relation to the value Proposition canvas, these motivations are what will help the customer’s get the job done which is being healthy and feeling good about their lifestyle. I think the ability to not just showcase the products but also convince them the products is needed for them is definitely a great strategy because it positions the products in the consumer’s minds in the way that they should view it. It creates customer gains by helping them view it in a positive light rather than a negative light and gives them an inspiration to actually do the activity.

Therefore, the effect in improving its positioning of the products will be extremely large because it will potentially secure a strong customer base and help generate more revenue.

Source: http://strategyonline.ca/2013/09/19/mec-uses-consumer-motivations-to-inspire-a-rebrand

The Pebble Smart watch slaying the Tech Goliaths?!

The tech “Goliaths” in our world today which are considered to be Apple, Samsung, and Google has just recently launched their very own “Smart Watch” but a small company, such as Pebble was able to storm the market due to its amazing design and capabilities and its “narrow focus of the market”.

Pebble could attribute its success due to its very effective business model. Instead of focusing more on its competitors and trying to go up the ladder to establish leadership, Pebble decided to focus more on the customers and how the product will be able to change their lives. Pebble narrows its focus among a segmented group of young teens which wears no watch at all. As such, its effectiveness is attributed to its ability to position the brand into the consumer’s mind.  You don’t have to change your life around the product … the product should let you live your life without restrictions“. Even though, Apple has been placed as the number one brand in many of the consumer’s mind, the slogan by Pebble was effective in positioning the brand in the consumer’s mind in a different angle as it creates an unoccupied position where it can be placed first.

In conclusion, Value propositions is an important aspect to consider as it could lead them to be more successful than the already established firms in the industry.

Sources:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/rob-magazine/how-pebble-is-taking-over-silicon-valley-to-slay-the-giants/article20195200/

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/careers-leadership/high-tech-tailor-measures-up-in-the-silicon-valley/article20378020/