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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OPENING A BUSINESS & BUILDING A BRAND

If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own thing, you’ve probably imagined the moment you open the doors (virtual or physical) to your shiny new business. But here’s the thing – opening a business and building a brand? Not the same. Not even close.

Sure, you can set up shop, get a logo, and start selling, but if you’re not focused on building a brand, you’re just another business in a sea of many.  So, let’s break down what it really means to build a brand and why it’s essential if you want to create something that lasts.


SO, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Opening a business is pretty straightforward. It’s about logistics: registering your company, setting up your website, getting products or services ready to sell, and opening the doors (or hitting "live" on your website). It’s all about the what you do.

Building a brand is about defining who you are, why you exist, and how you make people feel. It’s creating an identity that people connect with and remember. Your business is the structure, but your brand is the soul.


BUSINESSES SELL PRODUCTS, BRANDS SELL STORIES

Think about your favourite brands for a second. Do you shop there just because they have stuff you need, or is there something about their vibe, mission, or personality that makes you feel like they get you?

Building a brand is about creating that connection with your audience. It’s about showing them the heart and purpose behind your business – the why behind the what.


For example:

  • Apple isn’t just selling you a phone; they’re selling innovation and simplicity in a sleek package. You’re not just buying technology; you’re buying into a lifestyle.

  • Nike doesn’t just sell trainers; they’re all about empowering athletes of all levels with the message “Just Do It.” They inspire you to push yourself and achieve greatness.


BUSINESSES SERVE CUSTOMERS, BRANDS BUILD COMMUNITIES

When you’re focused solely on running a business, your mindset is often transactional. The goal is to make a sale. If you’re building a brand, however, you’re thinking bigger. You’re not just selling products – you’re creating a community of people who love what you stand for and want to be a part of it.

A strong brand has loyal customers who become fans. They tell their friends about you, they share your posts, and they come back for more – not because they need something but because they feel like they belong.

Think of brands like Glossier or Patagonia. They’ve built communities around shared values (self-expression, sustainability) and created movements that their customers want to be a part of.



BUSINESSES HAVE CUSTOMERS, BRANDS CREATE EXPERIENCES

A brand offers an experience. It’s how people feel when they interact with your product, website, social media, or even your packaging. From the colours you choose to the tone of voice in your emails, every touchpoint is a chance to create an experience that people remember. The magic happens when your brand experience is so good that it becomes part of people’s daily lives.


BRANDS ARE BUILT ON PURPOSE

The strongest brands are built on purpose. They’re driven by something more than just making money. Whether it’s solving a problem, helping people, or making the world a better place, a brand has a why behind everything it does.

Ask yourself: Why does your business exist beyond making sales? What impact do you want to have on your customers or community?

When you can answer those questions, you’re on your way to building a brand with purpose. And when people feel that purpose, they’re much more likely to stick around.


BUILDING A BRAND TAKES TIME BUT IT IS WORTH IT

Now, let’s be real: you can open a business overnight, but building a brand? That takes time. It’s a process. It’s about consistently showing up, delivering value, and creating a connection with your audience over time.

But take it from us, it’s worth it. Building a brand gives you staying power. It helps you stand out in a crowded market, build trust with your audience, and create a loyal customer base that supports you no matter what.


READY TO BUILD A BRAND?

So now, are you ready to take your business beyond just existing and start building a brand with real impact, we’re here to help. At Reise Studio, we specialise in building bold, strategic brands that not only stand out but also stand for something. Let’s build something unforgettable together. Get in touch today.

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