Episode # 89. On today's show we are joined by Rob Catanzariti - Vice President with The Emerson Group. Please subscribe to the Road 2 Retail podcast at Apple podcasts, Spotify or our YouTube channel. Plus- give us a follow on LinkedIn. Learn more at www.road2retail.com. Rob takes us through what The Emerson Group looks for in an emerging brand before bringing them on as a client. Deep, honest, and ongoing communication are key to an emerging brand being properly prepared to grow and succeed. Some great commentary for leaders of small, emerging and challenger brands to understand when preparing for growth and seeking a business partner to drive sales. Among the topics we touch on with Rob include: - Emerging brands generally need a sales agent or broker sooner than later! The smart play is to engage early and to be properly prepared to launch or expand your brand. - Signs that an emerging brand is ready to go for growth: brand claims & benefits are identified and validated with the consumer detailing that the product will actually serve a financially viable market segment. Manufacturing partners are vetted and capable of supporting your launch or expansion. You have the funding to drive demand and build inventory.- The questions you as a brand should ask a broker to ensure they are the match to help you drive growth. This match includes capabilities, experience and personality. Relationships matter. A lot.- We also address the questions you should expect a broker to ask of you as a brand. They will have expectations as well.- A good broker brings much more to the table than simply representing your brand to retailers. They can help with marketing, data analysis, business development, and constructing high quality go to market strategies.- We also discuss the importance of communication on many fronts- often the key ingredient to any successful business partnership. Enjoy the show! Please subscribe to the Road 2 Retail podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify or our YouTube channel. You can also follow us on LinkedIn. Please share the show with a colleague and leave us a review. Learn more at www.road2retail.com.
