HAAGEN DAZS, MAGNUM or DIRTY ICE CREAM

PRICEY?
Häagen-Dazs is closing shop in the Philippines. They used to have a branch here in Alabang Town Center. I may have bought once or twice, but I can't really remember when. I can't deny though, it's always a treat when your friends bring Haagen Dazs to parties. (Mas masarap 'pag libre!)

After 12 years of operation, Häagen-Dazs probably decided to cut their losses. They found Manila to be a "challenging business environment", according to a company statement.

Too pricey? Maybe. Or maybe it's not really about the price. For the same amount of money, you'll see people copiously buy a Frappuccino in Starbucks or a Smoothie in Jamba Juice; and these businesses are doing remarkably well! (Sometimes, the competition is not necessarily the same product)

THE INTERESTING

Recently, RFM launched Magnum, a premium ice cream. It was interesting enough to create a buzz, an impression, or to get the early adopters curious. Even though it's twice the price of (my favorite) Cornetto Java, that didn't stop Magnum from becoming a bestseller. 

What do people really want? 

Yes, they want something new, but they want more than that... they want something interesting. Interesting enough to tweet. Interesting enough for your friends to debate on Facebook. Interesting enough for them to 'forget the price' and to give it a try. 

With Magnum, RFM has increased its profits by 40% (240M) for the first 5 months of 2012.  [source]

THE NOVELTY

The Sorbetero Ice Cream is a novelty. It has become a part of our culture. The mere sound of the Mamang Sortbero's bell brings back childhood memories. It compels you to tell your side of the story. 

For 'The Novelty', it's not so much about the commercial success or how big the business is. It's about making that meaningful connection. (Side note: Remember Hap Chan in Malate when it was still a novelty?)

The Takeaway: For your business, pick one or two ...

1. Keep it fresh.

2. Keep it interesting.

3. Keep it a novelty.

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Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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TWO THINGS MANNY PACQUIAO WON

Photo Credit: Yahoo  / Marsh Starks – Reuters

In his fight with Tim Bradley, Manny Pacquiao may have deserved that belt, but he gained more.

After watching how Manny accepted the judges' decision with grace and self-control, he has earned our respect and admiration.

1. RESPECT

Manny says, "Let's give credit to Bradley. He did well tonight, I respect him, and that's the decision. I respect the officials. … It's part of the game, I give thanks to the Lord."

Manny knew he should've won and yet, he chose to be a gentleman. He could've been mad at the judges or could have blamed someone else. Instead, he gave Bradley his "time to shine" (it didn't last long though) For that, Manny, you've earned our respect. 

2. ADMIRATION

As a Christian, it's easy to question God and say, "Why God?!?" Yet, you see a man who is humble before the Lord. Even after a questionable defeat he says, "I give thanks to the Lord." 

It's easy to thank God when you're winning. But to thank the Lord at all times? (in this case, losing) That's always easier said than done! 

And yet, he did.  

I believe that his renewed faith gave him security. He knows that he is not just a title holder – there's more into his identity.

I'm excited to see what's next in the life of this champion.

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Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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IN THE BUSINESS OF BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE...

Putting up a business is exciting. One of the keys to success is to find something you can do that help others in a big way.

Entrepreneurship is rarely about what you can get as an entrepreneur. The rewards pour in when you see others benefit from what you give or deliver.

After 15 years in business, several talks and consulting work around the country, it is my privilege to partner with Ryan Peralta and Bob Barcebal.  

Ryan is the founder of Drumstart, the only certified drum circle facilitator/trainer in the country, and currently the drummer of Rivermaya. While Bob is a dynamic sales coach, facilitator of the 'Pinoy Sales Champ' workshop, and maybe the only person left on earth who think 'sales' is fun!

Together, we form SPARK CONSULTANCY. A training/learning firm geared to improve productivity, inspire creativity and help you increase sales.

*Official Website coming soon. For now, you may get in touch with my (self-proclaimed) good looking business partner…  

Bob Barcebal

Email: sparktrainingph@gmail.com 

Mobile: 0926–7242109 

Landline: 9046371

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