Compete every day. Now that’s a catchphrase easy to identify with for entrepreneurs – who probably know a thing or two about accelerated heart rates as well – so they should have no trouble fully appreciating lifestyle brand Compete Every Day.
Athletic apparel, mobile app, and more, Compete Every Day has grown from a few t-shirts in the back of Jake Thompson’s car into an international force. Whether fitting athletes for competition or fueling motivation through their blog, everything about Compete Every Day pulses with zest for striving to do better in every facet of life. Thompson, Founder and Chief Encouragement Officer, tells us more:
What inspired your current startup?
I had a desire to inspire a world filled with negativity with a positive message. It started as an idea to rebrand my marketing consulting, then, due to great wisdom from friends, changed course into an apparel line. Since then, it’s grown from two boxes of shirts in the back of my car to an international lifestyle brand accepted and supported by professional athletes, celebrities, and people from all walks of life who desire more than “normal.”
Chief Encouragement Officer at Compete Every Day, Jake Thompson
What makes your startup so killer? How is it different from the competition?
Our message – that everyone has a life worth competing for – is unique in that it is applicable to anyone. One’s goals, dreams, work, relationship, health, and more are all worth pursuing. We each have things we desire in this life, but those who compete are the ones who find a way to make those things happen or flourish. It walks the line of both worlds of sportswear and lifestyle wear.
“Streetwear inspired by sport. Sportwear inspired by Champions.”
What are three characteristics needed to succeed in building a startup?
Perseverance. Willingness to adapt or change. Patience.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs who are struggling to get their businesses off the ground?
Experiment in your marketing approach but stay consistent in your message and brand story. Consistency is key so the consumer knows what to expect with your brand, but always work to find the best avenue to reach them.
Have you had any incredible/funny/challenging experiences that you can share with us?
The entire ride has been one giant learning experience and full of surprises. I had zero experience in apparel or e-commerce when launching. It has been a challenge learning the industry while still trying to develop our brand’s story and offerings.
Our most challenging experience was this past summer. We invested heavily into one event, and instead of doing well in sales, we ended up tanking. It was a financial hit of $7-10k, which was massive for our small company. But at the same time, it turned out to be the perfect setup for a comeback. The poor event fired up our team to change strategy for the fall and relentlessly work events and opportunities throughout all of Q4, and brought our team back financially.
What is the tech scene like where you live?
Moderate. Dallas isn’t there yet, but it’s pushing forward and making big steps to catch up with Austin and Northern California.
Where can our readers find you?
How can the KillerStartups community help YOU?
We are always trying to review and refine our process of production and delivery to customers. Tips, tricks, and advice on how other organizations have been able to successfully outsource fulfillment while still building their brand would be helpful.
