Business Advice from Pumpkin Spice 🎃
September's nearly here, but pumpkin spice season is already in full-swing! In the 20 years since this cultural phenomenon first hit the Starbucks menu, it’s turned from a little treat to a big trend.
Brands from Dunkin' Donuts to Peet's to Krispy Kreme have filled their social media pages with #PSL posts, sponsored influencer content, and top-notch memes.
Companies have not been shy about finding new ways to weave this autumn favorite into their brand (look at pumpkin spice salmon and scented garbage bags). Even Starbucks is mixing it up with a Pumpkin Spice espresso martini only at their Starbucks Reserve stores. (A great way to get people through the door!)
What’s most gourd-eous about this PSL parade is the stellar example it sets for strategic timing. These pumpkin-touting brands start planning months in advance, and this strategy can be applied outside of the gourd-flavored foods sector. Cyclical trends, holidays*, and annual conferences can easily sneak up on you if you're not planning ahead. A long lead time offers plenty of opportunity to get those creative juices flowing so you can come up with an idea that differentiates your brand from the pack.
Though it may be from an unlikely source, take some advice from the pumpkin spice latte. Out-of-the-box thinking, bold new strategies, and early planning can make your product launch or next event an audience favorite.
TL;DR: Pumpkin spice season is a reminder to strategize and plan in advance for trends or seasonal events and to look for innovative ways to incorporate them into your brand.