Strategic Marketing & Planning Archives

May

07

2025

The Role of Brand Strategy in Building Loyalty for Outdoor Gear

Having a well-thought-out brand strategy is important for any business. But in the competitive outdoor gear industry, it means even more. Here, having a strong brand strategy for outdoor gear is especially critical to helping companies stand out, build meaningful relationships and turn first-time buyers into lifelong advocates. “For outdoor gear makers, a strong brand strategy is the difference between making sales and building a loyal community,” says Cary Murphy, Chief Strategy Officer for TBA Outdoors. “Outdoor consumers aren’t just looking for products — they’re looking for brands that speak to their lifestyle, values and commitment to the outdoors. The...

Apr

03

2025

How Outdoor Brands Can Grow Their Presence Through Experiential Marketing

Most U.S. consumers see and hear hundreds or even thousands of marketing messages each day. In the vast majority of cases, these messages are promptly tuned out and forgotten. But when brands can find a way to engage their audiences on a deeper level — such as by creating interactive, immersive brand-related experiences — the message is much harder to ignore or forget. By leveraging experiential marketing, outdoor brands can connect with their audiences, set themselves apart from competitors and grow. Why Outdoor Brands Have an Edge in Experiential Marketing Outdoor brands enjoy unique advantages in experiential marketing, largely thanks...

Mar

21

2025

Embracing Sustainability: How Outdoor Brands Can Effectively Market Their Eco-Friendly Initiatives

According to research, nearly 9 in 10 consumers consider sustainability when making an outdoor-oriented purchase — and they expect the brands they support to do more than just talk about being eco-friendly. Brands that fail to meet these expectations risk losing trust from this important audience that wants to see real action, measurable impact and honest storytelling. While these consumer demands can be challenging, they can also present opportunities for active lifestyle brands to shine. Outdoor brands that effectively and authentically market their sustainability efforts build credibility, grow brand loyalty and set themselves apart from the competition. Sustainability: A Smart...

Mar

12

2025

Adrenaline Research Labs Unveils Brand Launch With “Obliterate the Ordinary” Campaign and New, Immersive Website Experience Created by Agency Partner TBA Outdoors

Adrenaline Research Labs (ARL), a new consumer brand of exploding targets designed for the novelty and adrenaline seeking recreational shooter, today announced its official launch with a new campaign and website created in tandem with agency partner TBA Outdoors. Called “Obliterate the Ordinary,” the campaign – through vivid, up-close imagery – spotlights the so-called adrenaline rush that fuels those participating in this sport. This special category of shooters seeks more excitement and challenges as they become increasingly involved and better at their craft. In tandem with the campaign and brand launch, ARL also unveiled its new website. At https://www.adrenalineresearchlabs.com/, visitors...

Mar

07

2025

The Art of Packaging Design: Tips for Outdoor Brands Making Bold First Impressions

A person forms an opinion of an outdoor brand within seconds of seeing its product packaging, so it’s essential to follow best practice design tips. When you spot your flagship product on a store shelf, you’ll know the effort was worth the end result — but arriving at an impeccable design is a marathon, not a sprint. Outdoor brands creating new or refreshed packaging can make their product stand out using bold, on-brand designs, concise messaging and sustainable materials. Creating a package that accurately portrays your brand without compromising functionality or cost makes the art of creative package design for outdoor...

Feb

20

2025

How To Stay Relevant Year-Round When Your Products Aren’t: Seasonal Outdoor Marketing Strategies

Using actionable marketing strategies to manage the peaks and valleys of a seasonal outdoor brand’s business can turn challenging times into growth opportunities. Sales for outdoor gear might not be crushing it during the off-season, but brands shouldn’t stall their marketing efforts or wait for business to rebound before diving in. Launching marketing campaigns year-round keeps your brand at the forefront of the industry and helps build anticipation of upcoming products and launches to drive sales. Preparing for Off-Season Marketing You shouldn’t wait until peak sales are over to start your off-season marketing prep. Outdoor brands can ready themselves for...

Feb

06

2025

How Influencer Marketing Is Changing the Game for Outdoor Brands in 2025

Look for more from the outdoor industry’s legion of influencers this year as these enthusiasts go beyond the expected and embrace new trends head-on. The role of outdoors influencers already reaches beyond marketing spokespeople. These content creators embody the brands they represent, and they authentically rep the thrill-seeking, competitive lifestyles of their followers. The fact that the future of outdoor influencer marketing promises even bigger opportunities in 2025 should have any performance company excited. The importance of influencer marketing for outdoor brands will skyrocket in 2025 as consumers shift their attention from aggressive sales pitches and trust their buying decisions...

Feb

04

2025

Why D2C Outdoor Brands Need Data-Driven Marketing Strategies To Thrive

Increasing competition, evolving consumer behaviors and preferences, seasonal demand fluctuations — these are just a few of the many marketing challenges today’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) outdoor brands face. But all of these concerns (and many more) also have this in common: In the digital age, they’re easier to understand and overcome using a readily available resource. By leveraging the power of data, your D2C outdoor brand can create more targeted, efficient and impactful marketing campaigns that help you conquer your biggest business challenges — and boost your bottom line. “In the D2C outdoor market, data is your most valuable trail map,”...

Jan

21

2025

How Outdoor Brands Can Use SWOT Analysis to Gain a Competitive Edge

It’s freeing to roam unmapped terrain guided by instincts, but an outdoor brand that fails to use SWOT—an analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats—puts itself at a disadvantage. Before trekking into new territory, outdoors enthusiasts often assess their ‘SWOT’ to maximize their adventure. If you’re anything like us, standing still isn’t an option. Neither is going halfway and turning back. But that doesn’t mean we run unbridled campaigns. It means we prepare a roadmap for the journey using a SWOT analysis. Why not apply this forethought to your brand’s marketing strategies and push your campaigns to new heights? Read...

Nov

19

2024

How To Build a Winning Outdoor Brand Strategy

Building a successful outdoor brand marketing strategy requires a specialized approach designed to connect with outdoors enthusiasts and inspire them. In this article, we’ll explore proven strategies adventure brands can leverage to resonate with enthusiasts of field sports including hunting, fishing, boating and shooting — all while fostering brand loyalty and staying ahead of evolving industry trends. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach or start fresh, this guide will provide actionable insights for building a winning brand strategy for outdoor brands.