What 'Community First' Really Means for a DTC Company
Oct 26, 2023
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Nick West, co-founder of Bandit, a community-first apparel brand for runners, shares his insights on building a brand through authentic connections. He reveals how they prioritized organic growth and community engagement over traditional advertising. The discussion highlights the vibrant running culture of NYC and its influence on their journey. Nick emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling and the value of in-person interactions, alongside strategic pop-up events for deeper brand engagement. Tune in for inspiring lessons on entrepreneurship and community building!
Bandit Running exemplifies a community-first approach by prioritizing emotional connections and grassroots engagement over traditional advertising methods.
The founders emphasize the importance of understanding community needs, fostering relationships, and empowering individuals to create authentic brand loyalty.
Deep dives
Building Emotional Connections Takes Time
Creating an iconic brand requires patience and a focus on adding value through emotional connections rather than aggressive selling. The hosts emphasize that building a community-based brand is not an instant achievement, but a continuous effort to resonate with people. This approach entails fostering relationships and understanding the unique needs and experiences of the community. Such emotional connections lead to better brand loyalty as customers feel valued and understood.
The Community-Centric Origin of Bandit Running
Bandit Running was born out of a deep social connection within the running community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many turned to running as a safe activity. The founders, Tim and Nick West, were heavily influenced by their own experiences in various community-driven lifestyles, leading them to prioritize community engagement over product promotion. The brand initially focused on a single product, a running sock, which naturally aligned with the running culture they sought to represent. This grassroots approach allowed the brand to grow authentically as it resonated with like-minded individuals.
Rethinking Community in a Business Context
The concept of community within a business framework is explored, emphasizing that companies should not create an artificial sense of community but instead engage with existing ones. The founders argue that community building involves inspiring passion in shared interests and empowering individuals within that community. Their goal is to elevate the running experience globally, connecting various local running communities rather than claiming ownership of a singular community. This strategy leads to a symbiotic relationship where brands and communities lift each other up.
The Unique Approach to Marketing and Retail
Bandit Running's marketing strategy eschews traditional advertising in favor of organic engagement and community events. The founders aim to connect directly with customers, seeking their feedback and building a retail presence that serves as a hub for the running community. Their physical store is situated on a running route to welcome local runners and facilitate engaging experiences like group runs. This model of integrating community feedback into product development and marketing efforts allows for a more personalized and effective connection with their audience.
Tim and Nick West took a scrappy approach to building Bandit, their community-first apparel company for runners. They didn’t bring it up at their run club and they didn’t do any paid advertising in the first year. Here’s how Bandit grew organically and continues to empower the running community.
For more on Bandit and show notes: https://www.shopify.com/blog/bandit-community
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