Some African American Executives Make a Silent Agreement with White Corporate Hierarchy

Many Black men and women who choose to follow their dreams inside of large corporations still find their hopes shoplifted by a rigged system. I’ve always been a big fan of boxing. I appreciate the subtleties of how prize fighters balance brute strength with finesse and endurance. I love watching old footage of Mike Tyson … Continue reading Some African American Executives Make a Silent Agreement with White Corporate Hierarchy

Corporations That Say They Stand in Solidarity with Black Lives Matter Must Be Ready for a 150-Point Inspection

Black Lives Matter protests have now occurred in at least 1,700 locations across the United States since George Floyd was murdered by a police officer in May of 2020. In response, brands—including giants like Target, Ben and Jerry’s and NIKE—have made statements offering their support. But is their solidarity solid? Now a new non-profit Pull … Continue reading Corporations That Say They Stand in Solidarity with Black Lives Matter Must Be Ready for a 150-Point Inspection

Coronavirus Is Changing the Film Industry and How It Markets Entertainment to African-American Consumers

Many studios are finding that African-American salons and barbershops offer a unique platform for reaching black communities—even when they can’t open for business. You might not think that Hollywood and black beauty venues have much in common, but these days businesses of every size all share the same threat—social distancing. It is just as difficult … Continue reading Coronavirus Is Changing the Film Industry and How It Markets Entertainment to African-American Consumers

African-American Salons and Barbershops Are Told Its Time to Open Up. Many Are Saving a Seat for Their Customers Instead.

As black business owners weight the risks and rewards, their reputations lie in the balance. Few industries have felt the effects of COVID-19 as acutely the salon, nail and barbershop industry. Currently, there are 147,406 barbershops, 50,000 nail salons, and a staggering 289,277 beauty salons in the U.S. That doesn’t include shops that operate without a … Continue reading African-American Salons and Barbershops Are Told Its Time to Open Up. Many Are Saving a Seat for Their Customers Instead.

It’s Time for Streaming Services to Get Serious About Reaching African-American Millennial Consumers

Even during coronavirus isolation, black barber and beauty shops offer unique, creative options for marketing film, television, and music. Fox Corporation recently launched a new streaming service called FOX Soul, which is aimed at African-American millennials. They did it for one very good reason: Black millennials spend about $7.3 billion dollars a year on streaming … Continue reading It’s Time for Streaming Services to Get Serious About Reaching African-American Millennial Consumers

Salon and Barbershop Owners and Stylists Struggle to Catch Their Breath as the COVID-19 Shutdown Continues

But what if it is a huge opportunity in disguise? If you’re one of the 1.7 million Americans who own or are employed by a hair and nail care business, you may feel like you just lost everything. Before the coronavirus pandemic struck, IbisWorld forecast that the industry would generate $64 billion and take in … Continue reading Salon and Barbershop Owners and Stylists Struggle to Catch Their Breath as the COVID-19 Shutdown Continues

It’s Time for Streaming Services to Get Serious About Reaching African-American Millennial Consumers

Black salons and barbershops are the perfect venue for doing it. Fox Corporation recently launched a new streaming service called FOX Soul, which is aimed at African-American millennials. They did it for one very good reason: Black millennials spend about $7.3 BILLION dollars a year on streaming services. Why wouldn’t a major network want a … Continue reading It’s Time for Streaming Services to Get Serious About Reaching African-American Millennial Consumers

Entertainment Brands Find a New Ally for Reaching African-American Consumers in Urban Barbershops

Black barbershop owners have been doing their own marketing creative and strategy for generations. Why not let them work magic for you? African-American barbers are changing the marketing game and are now highly sought after by brands that recognize their innate ability to command African-Americans consumers’ attention. Barbers have always served as facilitators of both … Continue reading Entertainment Brands Find a New Ally for Reaching African-American Consumers in Urban Barbershops

Is Your Entertainment Brand Reaching Out to African-American Consumers Everywhere But in Their Communities?

Community and culture are of top importance to black consumers. If you want to connect with this demographic, you’ll make them a priority, too. Americans—particularly African-American consumers—spend a lot of time and money on out-of-home pursuits. Nearly a quarter (21%) of our time in fact. Yet, Hollywood and global entertainment brands have historically had a … Continue reading Is Your Entertainment Brand Reaching Out to African-American Consumers Everywhere But in Their Communities?