Turning Rainy Days Into Opportunities: The Rise of Original Duckhead
Table of Contents
- The Birth of a Vision
- Crafting a Sustainable Brand
- Building a Retail Foundation
- Strategic Retail Partnerships
- The Power of Persistence
- Leveraging Social Media for Retail Success
- Transitioning to E-commerce
- Customer Feedback and Product Development
- Conclusion
The Birth of a Vision
Morgan Cros’s entrepreneurial journey began with a move from Paris to London, where frequent rainy days and a market flooded with uninspired umbrellas ignited a desire for change. Her mother’s handmade umbrella, adorned with an intricate duck handle, served as the muse for her venture. Morgan’s vision was clear: to create high-quality, stylish umbrellas that stood out and lasted longer than the average disposable option.
Crafting a Sustainable Brand
Original Duckhead set itself apart by committing to sustainability. Each umbrella is crafted from 100% recycled materials, with the canopy alone equivalent to nine post-consumer plastic bottles. Morgan’s dedication to environmental responsibility resonated with consumers, as evidenced by the brand’s remarkable growth—selling approximately 1,000 units daily and achieving 100% year-over-year growth by 2024. Her mission to combat the staggering environmental impact of discarded umbrellas found a receptive audience.
Building a Retail Foundation
Before venturing into e-commerce, Morgan strategically focused on establishing a strong retail presence. She showcased her products at trade shows, targeting retailers to build brand recognition and a loyal customer base. This approach allowed Original Duckhead to refine its brand messaging and secure a foothold in the market before expanding online.
Strategic Retail Partnerships
Morgan’s retail strategy was built on making it easy for retailers to carry her products. By offering low minimum orders and generous margins, she minimized the risk for retailers. Additionally, she provided point-of-sale displays to aid in-store merchandising. This strategic approach helped Original Duckhead secure partnerships with prestigious retailers, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and Kew Gardens, lending the brand credibility.
The Power of Persistence
Persistence was key to Morgan’s success in establishing retail partnerships. She emphasized the importance of multiple touchpoints, encouraging her team to remain tenacious in their efforts. By attending trade shows, sending samples, and nurturing relationships, Original Duckhead built a strong network of retail partners, which later translated into online success.
Leveraging Social Media for Retail Success
Social media played a vital role in Original Duckhead’s growth. The brand actively promoted its retail partners on social channels, fostering a collaborative relationship rather than viewing them as competitors. This approach not only supported retailers but also enhanced the brand’s visibility and reputation.
Transitioning to E-commerce
After establishing a strong retail presence, Original Duckhead expanded into e-commerce. This move allowed the brand to deepen its connection with customers, sharing its story through engaging content and imagery. By understanding customer preferences and shopping habits, Morgan was able to tailor marketing strategies and product offerings to better meet consumer needs.
Customer Feedback and Product Development
Customer feedback has been instrumental in shaping Original Duckhead’s product development. Listening to consumer desires led to the creation of new products, such as umbrellas without the signature duck handle but maintaining sustainability credentials. The brand’s commitment to sustainability remains unwavering, with recycled materials and eco-friendly practices at its core.
Conclusion
Morgan Cros’s journey with Original Duckhead is a testament to the power of vision, persistence, and strategic planning. By focusing on sustainability and building strong retail partnerships, she transformed a simple idea into a thriving brand. Original Duckhead’s success story highlights the importance of understanding market needs, leveraging retail relationships, and embracing customer feedback. As the brand continues to grow, it stands as a beacon of innovation and environmental responsibility in the world of fashion accessories.
2025 Tendency LTD. All rights reserved.
