What a Tiny Plush Toy Taught Me About Marketing
For a business owner, marketing can feel like a challenge. When you see big brands with big budgets, it's easy to wonder how you can possibly stand out.
But what if I told you some of the most powerful lessons in modern marketing come from a small plush toy with a quirky smile? I’m talking about Labubu.
The company behind Labubu, POP MART, showed us that everything is marketing. They used simple, smart strategies to build a brand people love, and any small business owner can apply them.
So, let's break down the powerful lessons this tiny toy can teach us about building a brand.
1. The Power of Experience
Labubu is famous for its "blind boxes." You buy a box, and the specific character inside is a surprise. This mystery turns a simple purchase into an exciting moment.
The Lesson for You: How can you make your product a more memorable experience for your customer?
Create a "Discovery Box": If you sell baked goods, for example, offer a "Baker's Choice" box with a new, special treat inside each one.
Include a Small Extra: Put a personal thank-you note or a little unexpected gift in every order. This is a small gesture that creates a lasting positive impression.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Be Unique
Labubu's design is not traditionally "cute." It's mischievous and a little bit weird, and that's what makes it so special. This unique look is a big part of why people are so drawn to it.
The Lesson for You: Your unique qualities are your biggest asset. In a world full of polished, generic brands, your business’s personality is what will make you stand out.
Share Your Story: Tell people why you started your business and what you're passionate about. When they know the person behind the product, they feel a deeper connection.
Embrace Your Quirks: If your products are different or unconventional, that's what will make people remember you. Believe in what you’re doing because that confidence is contagious and draws people in.
3. Let Your Customers Be Your Voice
The success of Labubu is built on its community. Fans post unboxing videos(this is how I found out about them), share their collections, and trade with each other. The company doesn't need to pay for a lot of advertising because its customers are creating the buzz for them.
The Lesson for You: Your customers are your best marketers.
Start a Conversation: Use a unique hashtag for your business and encourage people to use it when they share your products.
Showcase Your Community: Regularly share photos and posts from your customers. This makes them feel appreciated and shows new people that your brand is a thriving community.
4. Scarcity Creates Value
Many Labubu collections are "drops" that are only available in limited quantities. This creates a sense of urgency. When people know something is rare, they often see it as more valuable.
The Lesson for You: A little scarcity can make your products feel more exclusive.
Offer Limited Editions: Introduce a product that's only available for a short time, like a "Holiday Blend" or a "Summer Collection."
Highlight Your Process: If you make things by hand or in small batches, let people know. You can tell the story of the craftsmanship and the special nature of a limited run. This helps customers appreciate the work that goes into each item, and it encourages them to make a decision more quickly based on a genuine appreciation for the product.
The most important takeaway is this: you don't need a huge team or an endless budget to have a powerful marketing strategy. You just need to be creative, believe in your vision, and give people a reason to feel like they are part of something special.
