The success of Wonder Woman 1984 on HBO Max over the holiday weekend got us thinking. HBO is probably feeling like a market leader.
Which means they shouldn’t get too comfortable. Because maybe viewers simply settled for that choice.
It was a test of sorts. To see if viewers would actually opt for the streaming movie or simply ignore it.
Turns out they opted in. HBO Max says nearly half of its subscribers watched WW84.
But the situation recalls what all market leaders must remember. In the lieu of any better options, audiences simply settle for the market leader.
Consider Walmart. It’s the retail market leader by a mile. But do shoppers really like Walmart? Do they have an emotional attachment to it?
Like most market leaders, it’s just become the default choice. Because Walmart’s competition simply copies its messaging and approach.
It’s a trap too many market leaders walk into.
Market Leadership. Don’t think just because you are on top that it will stay that way. Don't get complacent.
We're fine
HBO Max is feeling pretty good about the success of WW84. But it’s ultimately fool’s gold.
Other streamers (and studios) will follow suit and offer better options.
Being content is exactly how market leadership ultimately fails.