From Adweek · Adweek Staff · · 1m 20s
How Stanley 1913 Built a Hypergrowth Machine
Two executives reveal how candid communication and strategic partnerships transformed a century-old brand into a cultural phenomenon.
In brief
Two executives reveal how candid communication and strategic partnerships transformed a century-old brand into a cultural phenomenon. Strong executive partnerships built on secure vulnerability and continuous alignment are essential for scaling heritage brands without losing their identity. Originally reported by…
A century-old brand hits hypergrowth
Stanley 1913 is navigating rapid expansion while maintaining its 100-year heritage. Kate Ridley (chief brand officer) and Graham Nearn (chief product and sustainability officer) share how executive partnership drives this transformation.
Secure vulnerability wins decisions
Ridley and Nearn credit candid communication and what they call secure vulnerability as leadership superpowers. Pre-alignment and continuous dialogue prevent costly launch failures when making high-stakes growth decisions.
Data meets emotional conviction
Stanley evaluates growth opportunities by combining data analysis with emotional conviction. The executives distinguish between what the brand should do versus what it could do, a critical difference in choosing partnerships.
Strategic collaborations drive culture
Major partnerships with LoveShackFancy and Jennie Kim show how culturally relevant collaborations accelerate growth. These moves demonstrate Stanley's ability to evolve beyond its core audience while staying true to brand values.
Employee feedback shapes investment
Ridley and Nearn turn employee feedback into meaningful investment decisions. They also diagnose capability gaps and evolve the heritage brand through psychographic segmentation and international partnerships.
Here's the gist
Strong executive partnerships built on secure vulnerability and continuous alignment are essential for scaling heritage brands without losing their identity.
