Emerging from the sunny shores of Southern California, Hollister Co. has established itself as a global fashion brand synonymous with the laid-back, sun-kissed lifestyle of surf culture. Founded in 2000, by Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister has captivated the hearts of millions of young people worldwide with its casual, beachy apparel, captivating fragrances, and immersive retail experiences.
A Brand Rooted in Surf Culture
Hollister’s branding and marketing are deeply rooted in the Southern California surf scene, evoking images of sun-bleached hair, sandy toes, and carefree days spent riding the waves. The brand’s iconic imagery, featuring attractive young models and captivating beach settings, has become synonymous with the Hollister aesthetic.
Capturing the Youthful Spirit
Hollister’s target market primarily consists of teenagers and young adults, aged 14 to 24. The brand’s marketing campaigns and store designs are meticulously crafted to resonate with this demographic, emphasizing fun, flirty imagery and a casual, beachy vibe.
A Product Range for the Surf-Inspired Lifestyle
Hollister’s product offerings perfectly embody the brand’s Southern California surf lifestyle identity. The company’s collection encompasses a wide range of casual apparel for men and women, including t-shirts, hoodies, jeans, shorts, swimwear, and accessories. Hollister’s fragrance line, with its fresh, ocean-inspired scents, complements the brand’s overall aesthetic.
Immersive Retail Experiences
Hollister stores are designed to transport customers to the heart of Southern California’s surf culture. The dimly lit ambiance, beachy décor, and upbeat music create an immersive experience that complements the brand’s identity. The signature fragrance, Wave, fills the air, further reinforcing the brand’s connection to the surf lifestyle.
Marketing Strategies that Resonate with the Target Audience
Hollister’s marketing campaigns are renowned for their captivating visuals and focus on the carefree, fun-loving lifestyle of Southern California surfers. The brand utilizes attractive young models and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to engage with its target audience and amplify its brand message.
A Global Brand with a Lasting Impact
Hollister has successfully established itself as a global fashion brand with a strong presence in over 600 stores worldwide. The brand’s enduring success can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to its Southern California surf lifestyle identity, its ability to connect with its target audience, and its dedication to sustainability. As Hollister continues to expand its international presence and innovate its product offerings, the brand is poised to remain a favorite among young consumers seeking a piece of the Southern California surf lifestyle.
Marketing Strategies of Hollister
Hollister is a popular American lifestyle brand that specializes in casual wear and beach-inspired fashion. The brand, which was founded in 2000, has become known for its laid-back, California-inspired style and its strong marketing strategies. Here are some of the key marketing strategies that have contributed to Hollister’s success:
1. Target Market
Target Market is a crucial aspect of Hollister’s marketing strategy, as the brand focuses on catering to the needs and preferences of its desired customer segment. Hollister’s target market primarily consists of teenagers and young adults between the ages of 14 and 24 who are interested in surfing, skateboarding, and other outdoor activities. The brand’s clothing line, which includes graphic t-shirts, hoodies, jeans, and swimwear, is designed to appeal to this demographic’s love for casual, comfortable, and functional attire.
To effectively reach and engage with its target market, Hollister employs various marketing tactics. The brand collaborates with popular social media influencers and sponsors events and activations that align with its brand image, such as surf and skate competitions, music festivals, and beach cleanups. Hollister also leverages user-generated content (UGC) campaigns, encouraging customers to share photos of themselves wearing Hollister clothes on social media using branded hashtags. This not only generates buzz around the brand but also provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences.
Recently, Hollister introducted a plus-size range and expanded size options for men and women. This move aims to inclusively cater to a broader spectrum of customers, particularly those who may have previously felt excluded from the brand’s offering. Additionally, Hollister has been investing in experiential retail, creating immersive in-store experiences that resonate with its target market’s desire for unique and memorable encounters. The brand’s “Beach House” concept store in Huntington Beach, California, features a living room-style space where customers can lounge and listen to music while browsing the latest collections. By adapting to changing consumer preferences and diversifying its product lines, Hollister continues to solidify its connection with its core target market while also attracting new customers.
2. Brand Identity
Brand Identity is a crucial aspect of Hollister’s marketing strategy, as it encompasses the values, personality, and visual elements that distinguish the brand from its competitors and resonate with its target audience. Hollister’s brand identity is built around the idea of effortless California cool, capturing the spirit of the Golden State’s laid-back, active lifestyle. The brand’s logo, color palette, typography, and imagery all contribute to this image, conjuring up feelings of freedom, fun, and adventure. Hollister’s stores are designed to immerse customers in this world, with beachy decor, vintage surfboards, and relaxed lighting that evokes the atmosphere of a California beach house.
In 2020, the brand introduced a refreshed logo that maintained its iconic wave symbol but updated the typography and color scheme to appear more modern and streamlined. Additionally, Hollister has been experimenting with bold, eye-catching graphics and patterns in its clothing designs, such as tie-dye and camouflage prints, which add to the brand’s playful and youthful image. The brand has also emphasized sustainability and social responsibility, launching initiatives like its “Hollister Recycles” program, which encourages customers to recycle their old clothes and helps to divert waste from landfills. By staying true to its California roots while adapting to changing trends and consumer expectations, Hollister’s brand identity remains a key factor in its continued success.
3. Social Media Marketing
Hollister’s social media marketing strategy is a cornerstone of its brand engagement, spanning across a diverse array of platforms. The brand actively maintains a presence on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, ensuring a broad reach to connect with its audience. The consistent posting of short videos on a daily basis reflects Hollister’s commitment to staying in tune with the ever-evolving landscape of social media trends, fostering dynamic and real-time interactions with its followers. This diverse platform approach aligns with the brand’s goal of engaging with its audience across different demographics and preferences.
A key element of Hollister’s social media strategy is the strategic use of influencer marketing. The brand establishes long-term partnerships with influential content creators, such as the D’Amelio sisters on TikTok. This approach is designed not only to enhance brand visibility but also to build trust, particularly among high schoolers, who form the core of Hollister’s target demographic. By leveraging the popularity and authenticity of these influencers, Hollister taps into the influencer’s existing community, fostering a sense of connection that goes beyond traditional marketing methods.
One distinctive feature in Hollister’s approach is its emphasis on custom music, specifically crafted for TikTok and in-store experiences. Recognizing the influential role that music plays in social media engagement, this strategy adds a unique and immersive layer to the brand’s content. The brand’s commitment to platforms it can fully dedicate itself to, as articulated by Hollister’s Head of Social Media, Capri Debiccari, underscores the strategic importance of depth over breadth in the chosen social media channels. This focused approach ensures a concentrated and impactful brand presence, resonating authentically with the audience.
Hollister’s social media marketing strategy extends beyond mere content creation to structured planning and execution. The brand’s unique terminology, referring to photoshoots as “content shoots” and treating models akin to influencers, reflects a commitment to authenticity in its visual storytelling. Additionally, Hollister utilizes its talent pool as a reliable Gen Z research group, emphasizing the importance of staying attuned to the ever-evolving preferences and behaviors of its target demographic. With dedicated teams overseeing strategy, social media, and influencer relations, Hollister’s holistic approach ensures a cohesive, engaging, and research-driven online presence.
4. Influencer Marketing
Influencer Marketing has been a significant component of Hollister’s marketing strategy, as the brand leverages partnerships with social media personalities and content creators to showcase its products and tap into their audiences’ influence. Hollister collaborates with a mix of established and emerging influencers who embody the brand’s laid-back, California-inspired aesthetic and values. This strategy allows Hollister to reach a wider audience, increase brand awareness, and drive traffic to its websites and physical stores. Some of the influencers that Hollister has worked with include Spencer Barbosa, Jojo Sim, thehouseofsequins, finnseefeldt, Dixie, Charli.
In 2021, Hollister made an announcement about a sub-brand tailored for Gen Z, and it’s called Social Tourist. This innovative venture was developed in collaboration with social media influencers, Charli and Dixie D’Amelio. The brand’s products are available not only at Hollister stores worldwide but also on SocialTourist.com. This initiative marked the beginning of an exclusive, multi-year apparel partnership between Abercrombie & Fitch Co. and the D’Amelio sisters. The D’Amelio sisters have actively participated in sponsored videos and posts for Hollister and have previously teamed up with the brand for special limited-edition items.
In 2022, Hollister initiated its inaugural session of the Hollister Collective, a creators program featuring a cohort of over a dozen emerging Gen-Z TikTok creators, in June. The first class of this collective concluded at the end of February. Members actively contributed by posting regular content to fortify marketing efforts. They also took charge of leading Instagram live shopping sessions and story takeovers on the Hollister account. Additionally, they wrote and produced custom music for use both on TikTok and in-store.
5. Experiential Marketing
Experiential Marketing has been a vital component of Hollister’s marketing strategy, focusing on creating memorable and engaging experiences for its target audience. The brand’s goal is to immerse customers in the California lifestyle, surrounding them with the sights, sounds, and sensations of the West Coast. Hollister’s stores are designed to resemble beach houses, complete with wooden boardwalks, beachy decor, and even lifeguard stands. The brand also hosts in-store events, such as concerts, movie nights, and surfboard demonstrations, to create a sense of community and excitement around its products.
The brand has introduced augmented reality (AR) experiences, allowing customers to virtually try on clothes and see how they would look in different settings. Hollister has also implemented interactive fitting rooms, where customers can request different sizes and colors of clothes without having to leave the dressing room. Additionally, the brand has created a virtual reality (VR) experience that simulates a day at the beach, complete with crashing waves and sandy dunes. By blending physical and digital experiences, Hollister creates a truly immersive and engaging environment for its customers, setting itself apart from other fast-fashion retailers.
6. Retail Partnerships
Hollister employs retail partnerships as a crucial element of its marketing strategy to establish and enhance its brand presence. One notable avenue is through collaborations with TikTok creators, forming long-term partnerships to cultivate trust, particularly within their key demographic—high schoolers. By aligning with influencers on TikTok, Hollister taps into a platform popular among young audiences, leveraging the creators’ reach to authentically connect with potential customers.
Additionally, Hollister has strategically partnered with Snapchat (Snap) to create an augmented reality holiday marketplace. This innovative collaboration on Snapchat provides users with a unique and engaging shopping experience, showcasing products in a dynamic and interactive way during the holiday season. This approach not only aligns with the platform’s user base but also demonstrates Hollister’s commitment to staying at the forefront of digital trends.
A significant partnership within the Hollister portfolio is with Gilly Hicks, a co-branded subsidiary of Abercrombie & Fitch. This collaboration allows Hollister to diversify its product offerings and reach a broader audience through a shared brand identity.
Moreover, Hollister has established the Hollister Creator Collective, consisting of dozens of mid-sized influencers engaged in year-round collaboration with the brand. This collective approach ensures a consistent presence and connection with the target audience through a diverse group of influencers.
Complementing these strategies, Hollister has implemented an affiliate program called the Hollister Associate Community. Through this program, members have the opportunity to create and use affiliate links, earning additional income for the sales they contribute to generating. This not only incentivizes brand advocacy but also empowers individuals within the community to actively participate in promoting Hollister products.
7. User-Generated Content (UGC) Campaigns
Hollister strategically integrates User Generated Content (UGC) campaigns as a key component of its marketing strategy, leveraging customer-generated content to promote its products and connect with its audience. The brand’s primary digital communication channels include popular social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter, as well as opt-in email campaigns.
The use of User Generated Content (UGC) is a dynamic marketing technique embraced by Hollister. This involves incorporating content sourced from customers, which can encompass various forms such as social media posts, reviews, shared photos, videos, and blog posts. By encouraging and showcasing content created by its customers, Hollister not only fosters a sense of community but also benefits from the authenticity and relatability that user-generated content brings.
Hollister’s collaboration with Mattel’s Barbie and the partnership with the D’Amelio sisters are notable instances where UGC played a pivotal role. The tie-up with Mattel’s Barbie included various elements such as video content, live events, and a metaverse activation on Roblox. These initiatives likely generated a wealth of user-generated content as fans and customers engaged with the brand in these different online spaces.
The launch of Social Tourist in 2021, a collaboration with TikTok stars, the D’Amelio sisters, is another example where user-generated content becomes central. By partnering with influencers and creators, Hollister encourages their followers to generate content around the collaboration, whether it be social media posts, videos, or other forms of expression. This not only amplifies the reach of the campaign but also adds an authentic touch to the brand’s marketing efforts.
Some common examples of UGC campaigns employed by Hollister include online reviews, hashtag campaigns, and influencer-generated content. These strategies not only allow Hollister to tap into the creativity and influence of its customer base but also create a more engaging and participatory brand experience. For instance, Hollister used the hashtag #InHollister in a “flock-to-unlock” experience. Fans tweeted the hashtag to unlock a special deal for the day.
In conclusion, Hollister’s marketing strategy stands as a dynamic and multi-faceted approach to engage with its audience across diverse platforms. From a robust social media presence to strategic influencer marketing initiatives with long-term partnerships, the brand is committed to authenticity and connection. With a clear focus on platforms that allow full dedication, the brand ensures a concentrated and impactful presence, resonating authentically with its core demographic. Hollister’s unique terminology, commitment to research through a Gen Z talent pool, and the structured oversight of dedicated teams demonstrate a holistic and evolving approach. As Hollister continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion and digital trends, its marketing strategies reflect a commitment to staying at the forefront of consumer engagement and fostering a sense of community among its audience.
Marketing Mix of Hollister
The marketing mix, also known as the 4Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion), is a framework used to develop a marketing strategy. Here’s an in-depth analysis of the marketing mix for Hollister:
1. Product
Hollister is a subsidiary of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. and is a casual lifestyle brand that targets young adults, primarily between the ages of 14 and 24. The brand offers a wide variety of clothing for both men and women, including jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, swimwear, and accessories. Hollister’s clothing is known for its casual, laid-back style and its use of Southern California-inspired designs.
2. Price
Hollister’s pricing strategy is designed to appeal to its target market of young adults. The brand’s prices are generally considered to be affordable, especially when compared to other high-end casualwear brands. However, Hollister does offer some premium items, such as its denim jeans, that are priced higher.
3. Place
Hollister operates a large retail network of over 520 stores worldwide. The brand’s stores are located in both upscale shopping malls and outlet centers. Hollister also sells its products online through its own website and through third-party retailers.
Hollister also sells its products through its website, which offers easy navigation, clear product information, and convenient checkout options. The company’s distribution strategy is designed to ensure that its products are available to customers wherever they are, whether in-store or online.
4. Promotion
Hollister uses a variety of promotional channels to reach its target market. These channels include:
- Social media: Hollister is very active on social media, with over 14 million followers on Instagram alone. The brand uses social media to share its latest products, connect with its customers, and promote its brand image.
- Influencer marketing: Hollister has partnered with a number of social media influencers to promote its products. These influencers have a large following of young adults, which helps Hollister reach its target market.
- In-store promotions: Hollister frequently hosts in-store events, such as concerts and parties, to attract customers and create a fun and engaging shopping experience.
- Advertising: Hollister runs advertising campaigns on a variety of channels, including television, print, and online. The brand’s ads typically feature young, attractive models and focus on the carefree and fun lifestyle that Hollister represents.
In addition to the traditional 4Ps, Hollister’s marketing mix incorporates elements like custom music for TikTok and in-store experiences, demonstrating a keen understanding of contemporary trends and the importance of multi-sensory brand engagement. Overall, Hollister’s marketing mix is designed to create a seamless and immersive brand experience that resonates with its target demographic while staying agile in the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
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