Got Value? Find It, Market It, Reap the Profits

A well-defined business value proposition is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. This proposition communicates a company’s unique benefits and value, setting it apart from competitors.  

Here are some ordinary value propositions from famous brands:

Apple: “Think different.” Apple’s value proposition is centered around innovation, design, and user experience.

Amazon: “Earth’s most customer-centric company.” Amazon’s value proposition is built on convenience, selection, and customer service.

Nike: “Just do it.” Nike’s value proposition is about inspiring and empowering athletes of all levels to reach their full potential.

A value proposition does more than say what makes the company great. It helps customers envision themselves differently — as a technology leader, as being in control of their spending, of reaching their full athletic potential.

Value propositions can be compelling when trying to differentiate from a competitor. Let’s take two well-known battles of the brands: Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi and McDonald’s vs. Burger King. 

Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi: Coca-Cola and Pepsi offer similar products—carbonated soft drinks. However, their brand propositions are different. Coca-Cola’s value proposition is centered around happiness, nostalgia, and sharing moments of joy, as evidenced by its iconic campaigns such as “Share a Coke.” In contrast, Pepsi’s value proposition is more youthful and energetic, often focusing on celebrity endorsements and pop culture references.

McDonald’s vs. Burger King: McDonald’s and Burger King offer fast-food burgers and fries, but their brand propositions differ. McDonald’s value proposition is centered around convenience, consistency, and affordability, with slogans like “I’m lovin’ it.” Burger King’s value proposition emphasizes customization and flame-grilled flavor, as seen in its “Have it Your Way” campaign. By highlighting a different value proposition, Burger King has been able to differentiate itself from McDonald’s and attract its own loyal customers.

In both examples, the brands don’t try to go head to head with the same value proposition. Instead, they carve out unique value propositions that position themselves differently in the same market.

What is your value proposition? How do you use it to differentiate from competitors in your space?