Jeff Sekinger
Jeff Sekinger Founder & CEO, 0 Percent Who is Jeff Sekinger? Visionary Trailblazer Sekinger has been in the financial industry for over a decade. Starting
Companies oftentimes go through a metamorphosis and completely shift their present business model. In the world of business, companies must sometimes adapt and reinvent themselves to stay relevant and capitalize on new or unique investment opportunities that come about due to advancements in technology. Successful corporate transformations not only drive growth and financial independence but also position businesses for long-term success. In this article, we will explore 10 inspiring examples of companies that successfully reinvented themselves and leveraged novel business opportunities to drive success.
Nokia, once a leading mobile phone manufacturer, faced significant challenges with the emergence of smartphones. However, the company recognized the unique investment opportunity to be a leader in network infrastructure and technology. Nokia decided to shift its focus to developing cutting-edge 5G technology, establishing itself as a major player in the telecommunications industry and capitalizing on growth opportunities in network development.
Originally a DVD rental service by mail, Netflix realized the shift towards digital content consumption early on. Recognizing the potential of streaming, especially as internet speeds began to advance, the company pivoted its business model and focused exclusively on instant streaming, as well as original production. By de-emphasizing physical media and snail mail, Netflix revolutionized the entertainment industry, becoming an early entrant and a dominant player in the streaming market.
Originally an express mail company, American Express underwent a significant transformation in the mid-1900s. It shifted its focus to offering charge cards that extended credit to consumers and businesses. This strategic move positioned American Express as a leading provider of financial services, with more than 110 million credit cards globally in use.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chipotle Mexican Grill embraced innovation to navigate challenging and unprecedented times. The company invested in high-margin, drive-thru pickup lanes dubbed “Chipotlanes.” This strategic move catered to safety concerns and increased efficiency, allowing customers to conveniently pick up their orders, as well as incentivizing customers to order in advance, online. Chipotle’s ability to adapt and leverage new investment opportunities helped enable it to thrive in a very challenging and rapidly shifting business landscape.
What began as a retailer of coffee beans and equipment, later underwent a metamorphosis under the leadership of Howard Schultz. He convinced the Starbucks owners to create coffeeshops where customers could buy prepared coffee. This innovative approach revolutionized the coffee industry, making Starbucks a household name and a global leader in the café culture.
What began as a failed computer game called Glitch ultimately led to the creation of Slack. Slack is a widely used business collaboration application used by large and small companies across the world. Slack’s founders recognized the potential of their technology early on, and repurposed it for a different market, showcasing the importance of adaptability and seizing new business growth opportunities.
Beginning as a small online book retailer, Amazon experienced what is arguably the most significant business transformation of all time. In 2000, the company launched its third-party marketplace, expanding beyond books. Today, Amazon leads in nearly every sector it ventures into, from e-commerce and cloud computing to publishing and entertainment. Its relentless pursuit of innovation and investment opportunities has secured its position as a global powerhouse.
Many may not know that Play-Doh actually started out as a cleaner before pivoting to a children’s toy. Play-Doh’s owners recognized a new market when a schoolteacher introduced the product in arts and crafts classes. Realizing its potential as a children’s toy, the company pivoted and created what is now a globally recognized children’s toy.
It’s not abnormal for a company to undergo minor or even major transformation over the course of its lifetime. Multiple transformations can even occur, depending on the circumstances. These stories can serve as inspiration to any business or entrepreneur struggling to find direction in a hectic business landscape.
Jeff Sekinger Founder & CEO, 0 Percent Who is Jeff Sekinger? Visionary Trailblazer Sekinger has been in the financial industry for over a decade. Starting
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