Cutting Out the Middleman
This phenomenon isn't new, but the digital age has put it on steroids. Companies no longer need to rely on third party retailers to reach their audience. They can speak directly to their most ardent followers, building entire ecosystems that are remarkably sticky.
Take Disney, for instance. They have built a fortress of feeling that extends from streaming services and films right through to theme parks and merchandise. Each part reinforces the others, turning childhood nostalgia into lifelong, recurring revenue. This direct relationship gives them a treasure trove of data, allowing them to understand their customers with a granularity that was once unthinkable. They know what you watch, where you holiday, and what toys your children want, probably before you do. It’s a bit unnerving, but from a business perspective, it’s pure gold.