This chapter discusses the importance of distribution in the success of a business and uses the example of Rockefeller and his focus on owning the distribution pipelines for his oil company to illustrate its significance.
What should you focus on as the CEO/Founder of a brand new company? Most people have no idea and they waste their time focusing on the trivial many instead of the vital few things that move the needle. The truth is the role of a CEO/Founder changes with time and there are different priorities depending on the stage of the business:
Stage One: Product-market fit.
Stage Two: Distribution.
Stage Three: Talent and culture.
If you want to start and grow a profitable business for the long-term, you need to master the three stages and keep your eye on all three balls at all times.