43 days to launch a new product range. 103 days to launch another. All while tackling the headwinds that every other retailer has faced in the last 12 months AND while successfully securing new private equity ownership.

Want to hear how?

Women’s Wear Daily featured francesca’s CEO Andrew Clarke last week which you can read here:

If you aren’t subscribed, Yahoo covered the news here:

It’s been a pure delight working with Andrew Clarke and the francesca’s team for the last year.

Never before have I seen a company innovate more while going through a financial restructuring.

Yes eComm and direct to consumer channels matters and there is rapid growth there beyond anyone’s wildest dreams that will come, but THIS insight from the WWD interview is also crucial as NASDAQ: FRAN moved into private equity ownership:

“The new owners are committed to stores. We are excited the new ownership supports the future growth of francesca’s as an omnichannel business. Boutiques and stores matter — clearly. Having just brought in a new leader for stores, strategic partnerships and real estate is very much an indication that we see stores being very important as we move forward.”

It is easy to chase NEW. It is easy to be dazzled by the bright shiny object that is the next opportunity.

But while you are doing that, don’t loose focus on your core customer, your key channels, and your critical revenue streams. That is what will distinguish you from everyone else.

When I first started working with Andrew and the executive team I tried a quiet challenge. - Could I only wear francesca’s clothes for work? —because I had a wardrobe full of suits for all of my on stage speaking events which were clearly not required for my virtual events and calls! - so I went shopping and I will soon make it 365 days!

...if you haven’t heard of francesca’s until now, they have the best possible clothes for endless Zoom and Teams meetings as they are forever updating their ranges to meet with the latest fashion trends - the latest Bridgerton Collection and Loungewear included!. - Their new tween brand Franki is also a big hit in our house! (No these aren’t affiliate links- just sharing a recommendation)

Now as for the francesca’s story, that is certainly Rapid Growth Done Right!

Dedicated to growing your business,

Val

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