The October Window

October is an important (and often overlooked) month in the annual business calendar.?

It's the true beginning of the 4th quarter that includes fall and winter seasonal product launches as well as the massive holiday marketing events happening in all retail channels. It's so important to stay present and involved with your weekly team meetings to be prepared for the necessary feedback and quick decisions that will have to be made. This is not the time for auto-drive.....it's the time to be extra engaged and aware of how your critical marketing dollars are being spent and how your creative content is resonating with the customer.?

It's also the best time to develop the following year's Strategic and Financial Plan. It's doubtful that you or your team will have a lot of time to commit to this process once the Holiday season starts to heat up in November. Also, depending on the length of your supply cycle, you are most likely committing resources to next year....how can you do that without a good plan? Finally, you've had enough experience with the year to begin the process of envisioning success in the future as well as the things the business will need to achieve that success.?

After the annual plan is complete, it's then a good time to start focusing on the first ( and maybe second) quarter. This year is going to end with a highly promotional period that will probably last well into January and maybe February. It's so important to follow this up with compelling and energetic new creative and product messaging. It's a big mistake to go quiet after a sale....you have to show the customer that your brand has value beyond a promotional deal.?

We work closely with our clients to plan and execute during this busy period. If you and your team would like to better understand how we can be helpful in building your strategy for next year, please reach out to [email protected].?