In this MarkStrat optimal brand strategy analysis, I’ve researched how the number of brands impacts team performance by examining share price index (SPI) across multiple markets. Finding the right brand portfolio balance is crucial for maximizing your MarkStrat simulation success.
Optimal Brand Strategy: Total Brand Portfolio Analysis
When analyzing the total number of brands a team manages compared to their SPI, the data shows a clear peak around 5-6 total brands across both markets. Some teams have achieved impressive results with as few as 3 brands or as many as 7, but the data strongly suggests that exceeding 7 brands provides no additional advantage and may actually harm performance.
MarkStrat Brand Strategy: Second Market Focus
Diving deeper into optimal brand strategy, I examined the composition of brand portfolios. Teams with more second market brands (Vodites, Nutrites, or Trigols) generally achieved better share price indices. Surprisingly, teams with 4 brands in the second market outperformed others, despite there being only 3 segments in this market.
The data reveals that 2 brands in the second market represents the sweet spot for most successful teams. This strategic brand allocation significantly increases your chances of outperforming competitors in the MarkStrat simulation.
Key Brand Strategy Takeaways
- Optimal total brand count: 5-6 brands across both markets
- Ideal second market presence: 2 brands for best performance
- Avoid exceeding 7 total brands in your portfolio
These findings can help guide your MarkStrat team’s brand portfolio decisions. Remember that brand management involves more than just quantity – quality positioning and targeted marketing are equally important for success.
For more insights on MarkStrat strategies, check out resources from StratX Simulations or explore academic research on marketing simulations from Harvard Business Review.
| Total Brands | Performance |
| 3-4 | Good |
| 5-6 | Optimal |
| 7 | Good |
| 8+ | Diminishing returns |
The most successful MarkStrat teams focus on strategic brand allocation rather than simply maximizing brand count. Quality over quantity remains a fundamental principle in effective brand portfolio management.
MarkStrat Research Insights
# MarkStrat Brand Strategy Quick Reference
- Optimal total brands: 5-6
- Ideal second market brands: 2
- Avoid: More than 7 total brands