What's Happening?
New Balance, despite having Shohei Ohtani as a brand ambassador, missed several marketing opportunities during the 2025 World Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers' victory over the Toronto Blue Jays was a highly
viewed event, yet New Balance did not capitalize on the moment with fan activations, on-field debuts of new products, or significant social media engagement. While other brands like Nike and Jordan Brand launched team-specific merchandise and engaging social media content, New Balance's efforts were minimal.
Why It's Important?
The missed opportunities by New Balance highlight the importance of strategic marketing in leveraging high-profile events to enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement. With Ohtani being a prominent figure in baseball, New Balance's lack of presence during the World Series could affect its brand perception and market share in the competitive sportswear industry. This situation underscores the need for brands to align their marketing strategies with major sporting events to maximize exposure and consumer interest.
What's Next?
Moving forward, New Balance may need to reassess its marketing strategies to better leverage its association with high-profile athletes like Ohtani. This could involve more proactive planning for future events and collaborations to ensure the brand remains competitive. Additionally, the company might explore innovative ways to engage with fans and consumers, potentially leading to new product launches or marketing campaigns.
