Overseas sourcing was complicated, plus we owned a factory in Colorado that we were very committed to, and ecommerce was cost-prohibitive for a tiny company. That left us seeking strategic partnerships. Most small companies stay focused on product innovation, but there are so many other aspects of a business that also require critical examination. From the late ‘90s to early ‘00s, some of the most important innovations in our industry were not in product development, but in overseas sourcing, the rise of ecommerce, and in forming strategic partnerships to consolidate operational expenses – all pretty daunting things for a small backpack maker. There were innovations happening in the outdoor industry that we didn’t qualify properly. What happened to Madden Equipment? When and why did the brand fall off the map 10 years ago? I even had some ideas for new products that the company supported and wound up bringing to market. We created a child carrier that received a lot of recognition and became a time-tested design. But, the best part was that not one of us working on the project had kids! We just had total freedom to create and build and come up with new ideas. Who wouldn’t want to show up for that job? Well, as usual with small companies, title and job description don’t always match up - I did everything from assembling backpacks to processing orders to packing boxes. Whatever was called for, there was an opportunity to be involved and learn. I took my time getting through CU-Boulder – taking a few classes, climbing and working. One of the jobs I had during school was an internship for a climbing accessory company. I really liked all of the people that I met – both staff and outdoor retailers – and found that I also enjoyed trying to manage all of the unique challenges that a small business routinely encounters.Īfter graduation, there was a customer service job at Madden Equipment that I applied for. How did you initially become involved with Madden Equipment? The Daylite from Madden Equipment, your classic "day-and-a-half" pack. We asked Mike about what happened to the brand that led to its decline, we found out why he decided to bring it back, and much more! We caught up with Mike Valvano - a 23-year Madden Equipment veteran who has been leading the company's return while running his own consulting business, Graphite Workshop - to get the scoop on what it takes to relaunch a brand with the reputation for producing quality gear. "I think the positive response we’ve received is triggered by more of an emotional connection – elements of community, trust, simplicity." And it’s not because there’s a shortage of great product in the market – most of the products that we, as an industry, offer are more than the recreational outdoor athlete probably needs," says Mike Valvano. "People are genuinely psyched about what we’re doing. Now, thanks to a team of original Madden employees led by President Mike Valvano, the company is preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary after being off the market for the last ten years. Madden Equipment, maker of heritage packs and outdoor gear, was one of the original outdoor brands from Boulder, Colo. Madden Equipment Q&A with President Mike Valvano
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