Making Specialty Retail Truly Special: Lloyd Vogel of Garage Grown Gear

Lloyd Vogel is the CEO of Garage Grown Gear, the online retailer that has become the go-to site for ultralight backpacking gear as well as the place to discover new brands and craft gear makers.

Here are a few of the topics covered in this episode:

• The Importance of Differentiation: Why specialty retail needs to focus on unique, valuable, and convenient offerings.
• Taking Risks to Stand Out: How embracing lesser-known brands can lead to success in the outdoor industry.
• Lessons from GGG’s Journey: The role of strategic partnerships and supporting vendors with innovative solutions like small loans.
• Building a Thriving Audience: Tips on leveraging giveaways, email lists, and existing communities for growth.
• Long-Term Focus vs. Trends: Why following trends can be risky and how to ensure your brand evolves with the market.
• Advice for Founders: Lloyd’s tips for outdoor entrepreneurs on making impactful moves and focusing their energy where it matters most.
• A Changing Landscape: Lloyd’s thoughts on the current reckoning in outdoor gear retail and what it means for small businesses.

The KORE Podcast is a production of KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. You can learn more about KORE here.

Want to get in touch? Email us at koreoutdoorspodcast@gmail.com

Show Notes:
Garage Grown Gear
Senchi Designs
Virginia Foothills Designs
Inbox When Ready - email inbox manager
Light Phone - mobile phone Lloyd uses

You can connect with Lloyd on LinkedIn: Lloyd Vogel

You can connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Christian Rawles