Getting Manufacturers involved - 02 Aug 2007
When we first set out to develop Laneo, we sought the input of over 50 outdoor sports manufacturers on a number of issues – especially what their needs were in terms of marketing and promotion programs. The feedback we received signaled an overwhelming support for our approach, and we were confident that manufacturers would be proactive and eager to participate from the get go.
We were wrong. Despite what they said and promised, industry executives in the end proved to be timid and faint-hearted in devoting any resources to our programs. Facing the reality, we knew we had to find a way to prove to the industry that there were people out there that wanted to get involved. We had to start building our global community despite the missing industry support.
Well I’m proud to say, the effort is paying off. I just returned from Annecy (see photo) where I’ve spent 2 days with Salomon & Millet (2 of our partners) working on upcoming events and actions.
Based in one of the most beautiful and pristine areas of France (and with an abundance of outdoor activities on their doorsteps), both of these fantastic companies have deeply-rooted brands and traditions. Both sell their products around the world. Both are leaders in their respective market categories. Both have modern structured organizations and foremost industry experts directing them. So why has it taken this long for them to finally agree to play along?
No lame excuses, no finger pointing and no strategic pretexts – just the basic of all obstacles – time. It takes time to change the course of things. And at large companies it takes time to get new projects started.
Because of the obvious confidentiality that surrounds the programs we’re working on, I cannot share with you the details but suffice to say they will involve Laneo at a global level and you’re going to love being able to participate in them!
So then, what’s all the fuss about with everyone else?
Although some of us are very concerned with the state of our Planet, we have to face it – a lot of people around us just aren’t. If you haven’t experienced natural destruction first hand, it’s hard to understand what all the commotion is about.
To help you understand this; during lunch yesterday on the terrace of a local restaurant facing the breathtaking mountains that dominate Millet’s headquarters, Laurent (Millet’s Rope Product Manager – see his interview in our Blog) said to me; “You know Andrew, when we go out for our lunch break and hike up to that peak over there (pointing to a picturesque granite cliff top), we never see any pollution or degradation. Maybe that’s why people around here just don’t understand what all the fuss is about?”...
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