Today we’d like to introduce you to Craig Carter and Michael Reese.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Craig and Michael. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
We saw a void in the men’s and women’s collegiate accessory business (watches and wallets). We purchased a 1971 airstream, refurbished it and traveled around the country from college game day to college game day setting up at college campuses, retail partners, etc to validate there was a need for an elevated product. Once the collegiate business became successful we launched the Jack Mason lifestyle brand (non-collegiate watches/wallets). This was elevated above the collegiate product with a very specific brand DNA. One that was missing in the market where there was a lot of brand catabolization.
Our first customer was Nordstrom’s where we launched the brand holiday 2015. We now have distribution with other national retailers including specialty stores all over the country. We’ve also expanded to Japan, Australia, and Mexico. We’ve since added additional sports licensing including both the NFL and MLB.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think most entrepreneurs would agree that it’s definitely not all flowers and rainbows. Selling into major department stores isn’t as easy as clicking your heals. There is a lot of due diligence on your side that needs to be done before you can even have a meeting with these guys.
From a product standpoint, you have to stay true to who you are and not always listen to what people want you to become, but rather keeping the integrity of your brand DNA. That is what truly separates yourself from the competition. it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Jack Mason – what should we know?
I handle more of the finance and operations side of the business whereas my business partner is more on the sales and marketing side of things.
As a company, I’m most proud of the people we have in our office. They all have sacrificed something to be a part of something bigger than themselves. They understand the big picture and have helped build and create a special culture within our company.
We are a company that is authentic, has a great sense of community, and will do anything to uphold its integrity.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Authentic, Community, Integrity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jackmasonbrand.com
- Phone:214-705-3770
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JackMasonBrand/
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