The Unofficial Shopify Podcast Montana Knife Company: American-Made Knife Empire
Jan 21, 2025
Brandon Horoho, co-founder and CMO of Montana Knife Company, shares insights on transforming a side hustle into an 8-figure knife brand. He discusses the importance of American manufacturing and community engagement. Learn how their weekly product drops sell out consistently due to innovative marketing and customer relationship strategies. Brandon highlights the challenges of local production and the benefits of owning your audience through email lists. Plus, hear about exciting future plans, including the launch of new pocket knives!
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MKC Origins
- MKC began 30 years ago when Josh Smith, the CEO, started making knives at age 11.
- He became the youngest master bladesmith at 19 and registered the MKC name and URL with his mother.
Unexpected Customer Behavior
- Initially, Brandon wrongly assumed MKC would sell one knife per customer, like Yeti.
- Now, the average customer owns 3-4 knives, plus other MKC branded gear and collaborations.
Collaboration Impact
- MKC collaborates with other American-made companies, like a cutting board company.
- This collaboration enabled the cutting board company to hire more people, positively impacting the local economy.