10% Remix Strategy

The 10% Remix Strategy is about taking existing successful products or brands and adding small twists to create new business opportunities. Here's how it works based on the conversation between Shaan and Sam.

Core Concept Examples

• College Merchandise Remix

  • Traditional college gear is mostly basic items (hoodies, t-shirts, sweatpants)
  • Opportunity to create high-fashion or luxury versions of college merchandise
  • Particularly successful in Asian markets where US universities are seen as luxury brands
  • Historical precedent: Japanese "ivy prep fashion" movement after WWII

• Corporate Merchandise Innovation

  • Current corporate merch is standardized (hoodies, t-shirts, backpacks, vests)
  • Opportunity to create unique categories:
    • Sales gongs for deal celebrations
    • Deal trophies
    • Series A rings
    • Exit rings (like class rings)
  • Focus on limited quantities but high price points

Strategy Elements

• Product Development

  • Create categories that other merch companies don't touch
  • Focus on high quality and high price points
  • Use unique fashion or luxury interpretations of standard items
  • Consider vintage/retro elements (like old Apple rainbow logo or Microsoft squares)

• Market Positioning

  • Position as "absurd" or "ridiculous" merchandise corporation
  • Target corporate culture elements not currently served
  • Focus on creating memorable, unique items
  • Emphasize limited quantities to drive demand

Key Success Factors

• Find products with strong brand recognition but poor merchandise execution
• Look for opportunities where current offerings are all similar/standardized
• Focus on creating higher-end or more unique versions
• Target markets where brands have cultural significance (like US universities in Asia)
• Create new categories within existing markets rather than competing directly