Hey, thanks for joining for another week of New Venture Weekly.
I recently came across Launderette New York whilst doom-scrolling on Instagram and it got me thinking…
With just a little bit of effort into branding and sharing their story on social media, they could differentiate themselves and build hype for their brand.
I also recently came across a similar story with Gracie’s Wine Bar (albeit not a boring business).
But again, they put a little effort into branding and documented the story of building the business.
It’s “building in public” but instead of a SaaS or an agency, it’s a real-life business.
Pink’s Window Cleaning is another great example of using branding to differentiate a traditionally boring business.
I’ve got a hell of a lot of ideas for this.
So let’s jump in!
👀 Things Worth Checking Out
The best businesses solve specific problems, so I’ve created an ever-expanding database of problems that are begging for a better solution. Check it out here - I’ve added some examples, including the one that inspired this week’s newsletter.
Are you struggling to find the perfect business idea? What if you could consistently generate profitable business ideas, anytime you wanted? The Idea Factory is designed to help you do exactly that.
🧐 Opportunities:
The good thing about physical location stores is that they’re limited to the location that they’re in - so you could just open a similar service to Pink’s or Launderette in your own city.
If you want some more inspiration, check out this Instagram account. She comes up with some super interesting brand ideas, like this boxing gym.
Here are my 5 favourite ideas:
Vending Machines - Make them stylish art pieces that aren’t an eyesore but instead attract attention. You want to create statement pieces that make them stand out.
Pest Control - This has almost definitely been done before, but probably not in your city. Make a pest control brand inspired by Ghostbusters. Create a super wacky van that attracts attention and drives around your city.
Storage Facilities - These are generally boring, lifeless buildings. Similar to pest control, you could position the brand around pop culture - think Fallout (Vault 51), Tetris, Room of Requirement (Harry Potter), etc.
Tax Advisory - Maybe the most boring business of them all. Premium & modern branding, aimed at Gen Z (they’re starting to create businesses now).
Dental Clinics - People spend ages in the waiting area, every logo has an apple for some reason, and the labs are cold and uninviting. It doesn’t have to be this way. Why not make them a place people actually want to go to.
Here are some other quick-fire ideas:
Pool Cleaning - could be a similar vibe to Pink’s
Office & Residential Cleaning - again could be a similar vibe to Pink’s
Car Wash
Gardening & Landscaping
Convenience Stores
Auto Repair Shops
👷 How to Build:
Define Your Vision: Design your vision and brand. Nail down the vibe, aesthetic, and customer experience you want.
Prototype the Experience: Create a mini version of the physical space or service. See what friends and people in your network think.
Design the Journey: Map out every touchpoint - from the moment someone walks in, to the service, and the exit. Use mood boards and sketches to capture your style.
Document Everything: Capture behind-the-scenes footage, from early sketches to the launch prep. This builds anticipation and offers a narrative for your audience.
🚀 How to Grow:
Leverage Social Proof: Document your journey on social media—Instagram stories, TikTok, newsletter updates, and longer-form YouTube videos. Show the real-time evolution from concept to launch.
Host Exclusive Events: Create buzz with launch parties, limited-time pop-ups, or invite-only experiences that reflect your brand’s unique style.
Engage Local Influencers: Team up with local influencers who align with your vibe. Their endorsement can drive foot traffic and media coverage.
Curate Content: Develop a narrative around your transformation. Think mini video series or newsletter updates that spotlight your unique rebranding and behind-the-scenes process.
Nurture Community: Build loyalty by involving customers in the journey. Make people feel like they’re apart of something.
Optimize Local SEO & PR: Make sure your revamped business pops up in local searches and media. Tailor press releases that emphasize your innovative twist on a traditional business.
🔥 Cool Stuff
(Bookmark these)
Find problems that need business solutions - Access the Problems & Pain Points Database.
Want to grow your business? Here’s a database of tools that can help.
Want to promote your startup for free? Here’s a database of free places to promote your startup.
Want to turn your idea into a business? Check out this business idea checklist.
Want to differentiate from your competitors? Check out this Differentiation Strategy Guide
Want to run ads for your business? Use these proven psychological ad positioning strategies.
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