On March 28, 2015 Future Shop announced the closure of 66 stores, and the conversion of a further 65 to Best Buy. It was a second major blow to Canadian retail, just over a month after Target’s announced retrench from the Canadian market place. What on earth is going on? Most would say that the Canadian economy is healthy, interest rates are low and confidence is high. … [Read more...]
Capilano University School of Business wins awards!
Students from Capilano University School of Business won first place in the Western Canada Business Competition last weekend. For anyone considering business schools and university options in Western Canada, this is a big deal! In addition to consulting, speaking and writing, I also teach marketing at a couple local universities, Capilano University being one. And having … [Read more...]
Is it “time” for Apple to disrupt again?
Last week Apple launched the long anticipated and rumor rampant Apple Watch. As with all things Apple, product leaks and speculation had been swirling for some time. While not widely available for retail until April, CEO Tim Cook's launch week was aimed squarely at building momentum and desire. Starting at $349 and spiraling upwards to over $1,000 with deluxe bells and … [Read more...]
Trust and targeting: Two reasons to love word of mouth
We all know that word of mouth works. It's one of THE most effective forms of marketing, and it doesn't cost a cent. But have you stopped to consider WHY word of mouth is so golden? It's about trust. And it's about targeting. Quite simply we trust what our friends tell us. Generally they have our best interest in mind. Helping you reflects positively on them, and in the end, … [Read more...]
What’s your purpose? Your flag?
Five years ago February 28, 2010 my hometown Vancouver wrapped up hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics with an epic men's gold metal hockey game. Downtown became one massive street party in a sea of red and white, with people hoisting the Canadian flag proudly. Canadians, we get a little excited about our hockey, eh? This 5-year anniversary of all that crazy flag waving … [Read more...]
