Establishing a Premium Branding Strategy for Outdoor Brands in a Competitive Market

When ORCA, a manufacturer of high-end coolers and outdoor drinkware, approached us for a branding strategy for outdoor brands, their goal was clear: establish a distinctive brand tone and positioning that would set them apart in the crowded outdoor industry. As part of Gathr’s portfolio of outdoor brands, ORCA needed a cohesive messaging strategy that aligned with its premium craftsmanship and rugged durability while standing strong alongside its sister brands. Our challenge was to carve out a unique identity that resonated with outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and lifestyle consumers who demand quality, performance, and authenticity.

To launch ORCA’s drinkware and barware line, we developed a comprehensive go-to-market and media strategy that blended digital, paid social, and traditional marketing efforts. Our targeted digital campaigns drove brand awareness and engagement, while strategic retail partnerships allowed ORCA to secure prime in-store placements. Through compelling end caps, wall displays, and point-of-sale materials, we ensured the brand made a lasting impression on retail shoppers. The result? ORCA gained significant traction in an ultra-competitive market, successfully expanding its footprint while maintaining the premium reputation it was built on. Fins Up!

SERVICES
  • Brand Strategy & Development
  • Brand Messaging
  • Positioning Strategy
  • Digital Marketing
  • In Store Displays, POP
  • Product line launch, Packaging
Many of ORCA's coolers all in a sea-foam green with ORCA logos and branding on the side.

We meticulously developed a bold, authentic brand voice for ORCA that amplified its premium craftsmanship and resonated with a growing audience of outdoor enthusiasts. Our distinctive brand tone highlighted ORCA’s rugged durability and unparalleled quality, positioning it as a leader in the competitive outdoor gear market. We ensured that ORCA’s voice stood strong alongside its sister brands while carving out a unique identity that appealed to lifestyle consumers.

The interior of a sample store. The ORCA logo is placed on the wall to help strategic in-store awareness and sales.

By executing targeted retail activations, we transformed ORCA’s in-store presence into a dynamic experience for shoppers. Strategic in-store promotions, supported by compelling end caps and point-of-sale materials, emphasized ORCA coolers’ essential role in outdoor adventures. These initiatives not only drove consumer awareness but also boosted sales, creating a lasting connection with adventurers seeking high-performance gear.

Many of ORCA's drinkware that comes in a variety of types and colors with packaging that displays the name and ORCA's logo.

From the rugged aesthetics of ORCA’s drinkware to the thoughtful design of its packaging, our branding strategy for outdoor brands ensured every detail was meticulously curated to reflect the brand’s values of performance, durability, and premium quality. Our team ensured that each product aligned seamlessly with ORCA’s unique identity, delivering an outdoor lifestyle experience that resonated with their target audience.

Five difference examples of digital and social media ads featuring ORCA's stein with different messaging, fonts, and photography.

Our targeted digital campaigns and social media strategies elevated ORCA’s presence across all platforms. Blending digital marketing tactics with innovative paid social campaigns, we engaged outdoor enthusiasts with authentic, on-brand storytelling. Every interaction reinforced ORCA’s identity and extended its reach to new audiences, cementing its position as a go-to choice for premium outdoor gear.

Campus-targeted branding with many difference examples of digital ads featuring ORCA products tied with school sports marketing.

Leveraging NCAA team licensing, we launched specialized campaigns aimed at students and parents of key universities. This initiative not only boosted ORCA’s visibility on college campuses but also aligned the brand with school pride and traditions. Custom-designed drinkware bearing university logos further emphasized the brand’s versatility and relevance, solidifying ORCA’s appeal to a younger, vibrant demographic.