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  • AQ #29: Brand Positioning in 2023 (Part-3): Reimagining Your Competitive Edge❣

AQ #29: Brand Positioning in 2023 (Part-3): Reimagining Your Competitive Edge❣

Insights from real-world case studies

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We’re now officially in the festive season. In my country, India, we’re now close to celebrating one of the major Hindu festivals, Diwali or Deepavali, festival of lights.

In the run-up to this five-day-long festival, people usually clean out their spaces, and that’s what we’re also doing at home right now as I write this 🙂🙂

Read the first and second parts of this mini-series if you haven’t already.

In the final part, today, we'll explore real-world case studies of some modern brands.

Through in-depth analysis and insights, we'll delve into brands that have successfully navigated the shifting tides of consumer expectations, as well as those who faced the challenges of repositioning their identities.

Here’s what we’ll cover today:

  1. Tesla - a case of innovation

  2. Canva - a case of democratization

  3. Abercrombie & Fitch - a case of exclusion and missing the point

  4. EcoLuxe Adventures - a fictional brand and a fun exercise to define its brand positioning

Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting your journey, this edition will provide you with valuable takeaways and inspiration.

Let’s unravel the strategies, triumphs, and lessons from these compelling brand stories.

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1. Tesla - Electrifying the Auto Industry

Introduction

Tesla, founded in 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning and later led by Elon Musk, has revolutionized the automotive industry by challenging conventional norms and redefining brand positioning.

This case study explores Tesla's brand positioning in depth, delving into its innovative approach, value proposition, and adaptability.

Innovation as a Core Value

Tesla's brand positioning is rooted in innovation.

As the world’s leading automaker, Tesla is on a mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy.

Their introduction of the Tesla Roadster in 2008 marked a paradigm shift, as it was the first highway-legal electric vehicle (EV) to use lithium-ion battery cells.

The innovation extended to the development of the Gigafactory in Nevada, which aimed to produce batteries at an unprecedented scale, reducing costs and making electric vehicles more accessible.

Tesla's emphasis on sustainability, represented by electric powertrains and energy storage solutions, aligned with the growing concern for the environment.

Value Proposition

Tesla's value proposition is succinctly articulated:

"Accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy."

This message emphasizes both environmental responsibility and innovation. By offering high-performance electric vehicles with extended range, they addressed the "range anxiety" issue commonly associated with electric cars.

Their Autopilot feature, combined with over-the-air software updates, has positioned Tesla as a leader in autonomous driving technology. They constantly communicate their commitment to improving safety and convenience through automation.

Additionally, Tesla introduced the Solar Roof, Powerwall, and Powerpack to expand their footprint in sustainable energy solutions.

By providing consumers with alternatives to traditional power sources, they established a complete ecosystem of sustainable products.

Adaptability and Expansion

Tesla's adaptability is demonstrated through its rapid expansion.

In 2019, they unveiled the Model Y, a compact SUV, catering to a broader market. In 2020, the Cybertruck, an all-electric pickup truck, showcased their willingness to diversify their offerings.

Their Supercharger network, strategically located, expanded to make long-distance travel easier. Tesla continued investing in Research and Development, striving for cost reduction and new technologies.

Result and Impact

Tesla's brand positioning has significantly impacted the automotive industry.

As of October 2023, Tesla is the world's most valuable automaker, surpassing legacy giants like Toyota and Volkswagen. Their Model 3 became the world's best-selling electric vehicle in 2020.

Tesla's market capitalization has skyrocketed, and they've influenced other automakers to invest heavily in electric and autonomous technologies.

Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, is one of the world's richest individuals, and the brand enjoys an enthusiastic following.

Conclusion

Tesla's brand positioning is a masterclass in innovation, sustainability, and adaptability.

Their relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to sustainability have not only reshaped the automotive industry but also ignited a global shift toward electric and autonomous vehicles.

The value proposition, combined with a diverse product line and expansion, cements Tesla as a trailblazing brand, solidifying its position in the ever-evolving world of modern marketing.

2. Canva - Redefining Design for All

Introduction

Founded in 2012 by Melanie Perkins, Cliff Obrecht, and Cameron Adams, Canva is a graphic design platform that has revolutionized the way people create visual content.

This case study delves into Canva's brand positioning, focusing on its innovative approach, value proposition, and global impact.

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