Nike's collaboration with Skims raises questions about brand alignment and market reach. Meanwhile, a new app called Protector connects users with bodyguards, riding the wave of influencer marketing. The fire truck industry faces consolidation challenges despite tripling stock values, highlighting a strange business paradox. An inspiring story about the Super Soaker inventor rounds out the discussion, showcasing innovation in unexpected places. Tune in for a mix of business savvy and lighthearted stories!
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Quick takeaways
Nike's collaboration with Skims revitalizes the brand amidst stock decline, illustrating the power of celebrity endorsements in retail.
The consolidation in the fire truck industry highlights troubling oligopolistic dynamics that affect pricing and public safety services.
Deep dives
Uber for Bodyguards
A new app called Protector allows users to book personal bodyguards similarly to how one would use rideshare services. Initially launched in New York and Los Angeles, the service employs former members of elite military units, presenting a unique blend of security and luxury. Starting at $200 an hour, users can choose various levels of protection depending on their 'mission', whether it's serious security needs or a more playful party accessory. The app gained rapid popularity through a viral marketing strategy that involved letting influential figures experience the service for free, resulting in a video that amassed over 10 million views within days.
Nike Skims Collaboration
Nike has announced a collaboration with Kim Kardashian's brand, Skims, marking its first new brand launch since Air Jordan. This partnership not only elevates Skims into the athletic apparel market but also rejuvenates Nike, as the company had been struggling with a significant decline in stock value prior to the announcement. Following the collaboration, Nike's market value increased by $5 billion, highlighting the impact of celebrity endorsements in the retail space. The launch plans to expand into various apparel lines, raising questions about the risks and rewards of brand collaborations, emphasizing that quality, rather than quantity, should guide partnership choices.
Monopolized Fire Truck Industry
The fire truck industry has experienced significant consolidation, resulting in monopolization characterized by increased prices and extended wait times for new vehicles despite a decrease in the number of fires. The private equity-driven rollup created a scenario where one company dominates a large portion of the market, leading to diminished competition and customer service. This oligopolistic structure is further complicated by a surge in fire truck prices, which have doubled in recent years, making them less accessible to fire departments. The situation reveals the troubling dynamics of modern capitalism, where fewer players control a market that directly impacts public safety and services.
Nike just partnered with Skims⊠but has Kim stretched Skims too far?
Protector just launched an Uber for Bodyguards⊠and 1 video hack made it go viral.
The Fire Truck industry has been taken over by Private Equity⊠but its stock tripled while fires fell?
The best Black History Month story yet?... Lonnie Johnsonâs Super Soaker.
$NKE $UBER $SPY
Want more business storytelling from us? Check out the latest episode of our new weekly deepdive show: The untold origin story of⊠The Patagonia Fleece đ
âThe Best Idea Yetâ: The untold origin stories of the products youâre obsessed with â From the McDonaldâs Happy Meal to Birkenstockâs sandal to Nintendoâs Susper Mario Brothers to Sriracha. New 45-minute episodes drop weekly.