Whenever a business attempts to enter a new market or create a new market altogether, there is a considerable amount of risk and the possibility of success.
Expanding into new markets helps businesses adapt to changes in consumer needs and industry trends. Once a business identifies a new market to enter and has the products that they believe will make an impact in that market, the real fun begins. How do you enter a new market that you have never been part of before? In some cases, these markets are so new that there are no guidelines to follow, things are happening in real-time. So what should you do to launch your new concept?
Some experts say the best way to achieve this is to use the “parallel play” behavior pattern of preschoolers. I know this sounds strange at first, but here is the gist of the idea. When preschoolers play together, they participate in what is known as parallel play. The children play close to each other but do not engage with each other, other than occasionally looking to see what the other child is doing. So in other words, have a plan, do what you think will help you achieve your goals, but also pay attention to what others are doing in the market space. There may be changes or patterns that are vital to your success.
That being said, here are Shachihata, we are taking on this challenge, as we are expanding into a new market — specifically hardware, DIY, and outdoors/gardening. We are excited about sharing our products, and their benefits in new and innovative ways. Our first significant step will be attending the National Hardware Show, Jan. 31 – Feb. 2, 2023, in Las Vegas. At #NHS2022, we will be showing our brand new line of professional series markers for the first time, amongst other proven winners, such as the garden marker and fabric marker. We hope you will stop by our booth, #SL10194, and see what’s new and share your thoughts and ideas.
If you’ve never heard of the National Hardware Show and have thought about diversifying, check it out. There are plenty of opportunities for everyone!
With summer now upon us, as well as high gas prices and inflation, many of us are searching for fun, and exciting things to do that won’t break the bank. Here are 12 suggestions that might be helpful in finding summer fun.
1. Visit a Farmers Market
Every community has at least one farmers market. They are a fun day out and a chance to explore what the local farmers have to offer. Check out this USDA website to find a farmers market in your area: https://www.usdalocalfoodportal.com/.
2. Have a Picnic in a Park
Grab your cooler and BBQ and head to a local park for a day in the sun. There is always something for everyone at a local park. A quick Google search of “local parks near me” is all you need to discover a previously unknown little slice of paradise.
There are so many things to see in this great country of ours, and a visit to a National Park is a great inexpensive way to see the sights and learn about the nature that surrounds us. The National Park Service has a wealth of information to plan your visit: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/index.htm.
5. Go Camping
A favorite summer activity for many is going camping. Camping is an inexpensive way to experience nature and spend time with friends and family. You may want to find a camping site a bit closer than usual, with the price of fuel this summer. Again, the National Park Service is a great resource: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/camping/campground.htm.
6. Plant a Garden
Gardens offer natural beauty and fresh vegetables. It doesn’t have to be a farm, just a little spot to plant flowers and/or vegetables. It’s also a great family project. This MasterClass article is an excellent resource for the beginner: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-backyard-garden.
Research nearby state parks for good hiking trails, or ask a friend for recommendations on their favorite hiking spots. Grab a hat, some water and snacks, and get out there. The National Park Service remains a great place to start your research: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/trails/index.htm.
9. Go for a Swim
Hit the local pool or a nearby lake. Swimming is an excellent way to exercise and stay cool. To find swimming lessons in your area, visit the Red Cross website at: https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/swimming.
10. Ride a Bike
There are probably many biking trails around your town. You can find local trails through your state and local park services, be sure to read user reviews to get a better idea of each location. Be sure to wear your helmet. To ensure your bike is ready for the road, visit: https://momentummag.com/get-your-bike-summer-ready-with-a-tune-up-checklist/.
11. Go Fishing
Kids love to fish (for 5 minutes, anyway) but add fishing with a boat ride, and now you’re talking. I’m sure you have a favorite spot, but it can’t hurt to explore more possibilities. Good luck! This website provides information on everything from getting your fishing license to registering your boat to finding local fishing holes: https://www.takemefishing.org/.
12. Learn a New Skill
Learn to play an instrument, paint, draw, dance, etc. Summer is a chance to try something new. Maybe you have a novel you’ve been meaning to write or an interest in pottery. There are classes and other resources available online, so go have a look, and let your creative juices flow. Lifehack.org has an article on ways to learn new skills faster and enjoy the process: https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/17-steps-acquiring-new-skill-faster-than-you-thought-possible.html.
Whatever you choose for your summer adventures, we hope you make the most of it. If you need marking supplies for camping gear or sports gear, or if you need pens and markers for your artistic masterpiece, we have what you need, and Xstamper.net is your resource. If not, get out there and have fun; summers are short.
Shachihata Xstamper 