Netflix plans to boost revenue by focusing on merchandise for its original shows. Microsoft CEO testifies in antitrust trial against Google. Chipotle collaborates with robots. Macy's plans for new stores. Netflix's expansion into merchandise and real-life experiences.
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Quick takeaways
Netflix is venturing into merchandise to capture more revenue by offering products related to its original content and planning real-life experiences tied to its shows.
While Disney has iconic characters for merchandise, Netflix compensates for a lack of universally recognizable characters by focusing on unique experiences tied to its shows and being proactive in securing partnerships and developing merchandise for upcoming shows.
Deep dives
Netflix expands merchandise business
Netflix is venturing into the world of merchandise to capture more revenue. The streaming giant has started offering products related to its original content to cater to super fans. They have released items like a Stranger Things T-shirt featuring the Hellfire Club, bridal dresses inspired by Bridgerton, and a squid game bear brick sculpture. Netflix is also planning real-life experiences tied to its shows and has learned from missed opportunities in the past. For example, when viral moments occurred, like Jenna Ortega's dance in Wednesday, fans rushed to buy merch and were left disappointed. Going forward, the company is being more proactive and securing partnerships with retailers in advance to have merch ready for upcoming shows.
Netflix's challenge in creating iconic characters
While Disney has a plethora of iconic characters that lend themselves well to merchandise, Netflix faces a challenge in creating similarly sticky characters due to its content strategy of producing a variety of shows and movies. Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck became widely recognizable and appeared across multiple products. On the other hand, Netflix's diverse content lineup makes it harder for them to develop universally recognizable and enduring characters. However, Netflix is compensating for this by focusing on creating unique experiences tied to its shows, such as immersive events and branded collaborations. The company recognizes the importance of being prepared for merchandising opportunities and is now more proactive in securing partnerships and developing merchandise for upcoming shows.
Embracing a culture of experimentation
Netflix is adopting an experimental approach to its merchandise business, much like Amazon. While there is a risk of investing in unsuccessful merchandise, Netflix is willing to take that risk and learn from failures. By trying out various merchandising ideas, Netflix can identify what resonates with audiences and what doesn't. This approach allows them to test on a smaller scale, gain insights, and then scale up successful merchandise. The company has the financial resources to support these experiments and is open to exploring partnerships and collaborations to expand its reach. While not all ventures may succeed, this strategy allows Netflix to capitalize on merchandise opportunities and connect with enthusiastic fans.
Microsoft CEO testifies against Google in antitrust trial; WeWork's financial struggles; Chipotle's collaboration with automation startup; Macy's plans for new stores; Taylor Swift attends football game; Netflix expands merchandise business
Pining for a “Stranger Things” t-shirt or “Queen’s Gambit” chess board? Well, Netflix may have you covered soon, as it plans to go the Disney route and emphasize merchandise for its original series. Plus: Satya Nadella testifies in the Google trial and Chipotle pivots to robots.
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