Nike faces some some uncertainty, but it is a business well positioned for a post-pandemic bounce. Boosted by strong sales growth in China the company's revenue grew to $40 billion in 2019. Footwear accounts for more than half of the brand's revenue. Nike's leading position for sales is not matched by sustainability. Progress is being made... Continue Reading →
I feel some discomfort defining Banksy as a brand. On the important attributes I am on solid ground: the artist's work is distinct, recognisable, and consistently purposeful in message. However, I suspect it is a label that the anonymous street artist who has deemed commercial success "a mark of failure" would dislike a lot. Labelling... Continue Reading →
At a time when investors are hesitating, British ceramics brand Emma Bridgewater has secured an £8m investment to support growth. It is a big expression of confidence for the pottery company established in 1985 that has organically grown revenues beyond £20m. Like the company's ceramics this investment is eye-catching and led me to reflect on... Continue Reading →
There are many startups postponing launches, but not the money saving app Snoop. With many of us getting anxious about our finances Snoop was gently introduced two weeks ago. The app takes advantage of the disruptive potential of 'open banking' to review your spending and provide personalised money management tips. With a bit of artificial... Continue Reading →
Covid-19 has hurt the happy meal restaurant. About 25% of McDonald's restaurants are closed globally, including all of the 1,270 in the UK. Despite the sales impact the McDonald's brand looks set to emerge stronger post-pandemic. In recent weeks the global attachment to the brand born in 1940 has become very visible. McDonalds clearly has... Continue Reading →
Disney has assembled an incredible portfolio of brands and companies including Marvel, Fox Studios, Lucas Films, ESPN and Pixar. Disney is a case-study of a diverse business that has made bold decisions to remain relevant. Strong story-telling franchises ensure cross-generation appeal and are translated into engaging experiences via theme parks or resorts globally. The company... Continue Reading →
In these uncertain times we should probably be classifying ice cream as medicinal. Unfortunately, with restaurants closed, cinemas shut and trips cancelled many of those out-of-home moments where we get the ice cream urge have temporarily gone. The sales impact has led to Unilever, the owner of the Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum brands to... Continue Reading →
The painful Brexit debate has sharply polarised the UK public in recent years, but that is changing. According to YouGov in March, 59% of UK adults believe we are closer together Vs 11% feeling more divided. The common enemy of Covid-19 will explain some of our growing togetherness. But our shared admiration and support for... Continue Reading →
How pharma companies such as Gilead are seeking to solve the new problem of Covid-19 offers inspiration and encouragement for innovators. With early trial results indicating that Remdesivir can speed Covid-19 recovery the drug looks it will help many of those hospitalised. It may be a modest success but Remdesivir is set to be memorable... Continue Reading →
Morrisons, the UK's number four grocery chain has faced increased competition from discounters and seen a steady market share decline in recent years. The very late arrival to on-line grocery delivery hasn't helped. Bigger rivals Tesco and Sainsbury have had more than a 15 year head-start. CEO David Potts understands the need to make up... Continue Reading →
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