John Nese’s business was going broke. His family-owned grocery store was being eaten alive by grocery chains. So when a woman called looking for a unique mint soda, he saw an opportunity. Today John’s store, Galco’s Soda Pop Stop, sells every imaginable soda from around the world. Business is good.
John Nese was willing to adapt, here are other examples:
- Slack was initially developed as an internal communication tool for a gaming company. Today Slack has transformed into a widely used collaboration platform, innovating how teams communicate and work together.
- Wrigley began as a soap and baking powder company but found success by offering chewing gum as a premium with their products. They eventually focused solely on gum, becoming a household name.
- Nintendo, established in 1889 in Japan, sold playing cards. Now they are famous for video games and gaming consoles and are a major player in the entertainment industry.
- Bic started by producing a simple ballpoint pen but expanded its product line to include disposable razors, lighters, and stationery items.
There are endless examples of companies that would not or could not adapt. Every day we have to be prepared to handle whatever might happen. Change is the only “constant”. We must be on the lookout for innovations and opportunities: new and outside-the-box solutions.
Roundtables are a sounding board for thought-provoking ideas. How can we help?
The road is easier together,
Linda Laitala, President
Raven Performance Group