Newsletter September 3, 2024

Buzz Lightyear, that fearless Toy Story space ranger with a heart of gold, burst on to movie screens on November 22, 1995. In the 29 years since the animated hero first uttered his epic rallying cry, it has come to mean adventurous spirit, boundless ambition, and determination to achieve the impossible.

I was recently working with a company that is about to hit their fifty-year mark and it got me to thinking about the idea of the long-term impact a business can make over time. I wondered if anyone had ever coined the phrase “infinity company.” Apparently not. So, here’s my proposed definition of one.

An Infinity Company: A business that strives for perpetual growth and relevance, continuously innovating and adapting to ensure long-term success across generations. Such companies are characterized by their commitment to sustainability, enduring values, and the ability to evolve with changing market dynamics.

In some ways, Toy Story as a franchise, fit that description. It’s had a profound cultural impact over the past 29 years, shaping not just the animation industry but also popular culture. Consider what it has contributed:

• It revolutionized animation.
• Created enduring characters beloved by many generations.
• Led to three hit sequels.
• Set records for merchandising.
• Received numerous awards and accolades, including an Academy Award for Special Achievement and recognition for its innovation and storytelling.

Between box office, home video sales, television and streaming, sequels, and spin offs, Toy Story has probably impacted billions of people.

This impact made me wonder how long a company can maintain its relevance, competitiveness, and financial health. Turns out, not that long.

• Approximately 36% of companies manage to survive for 10 years.
• At 25 years, it drops to around 12%. of companies are older than 26 years.
• Only about 0.5% of companies reach the 100-year mark. Achieving this longevity is exceptionally rare and typically requires robust adaptability, consistent innovation, strong governance, and a steadfast commitment to core values and customer satisfaction​.

That’s why I was stunned to learn about the company known as Kongō Gumi. The one that lasted 1,428 years.

Kongō Gumi was a Japanese construction company first established in 578 AD. The firm primarily built Buddhist temples. The company is considered the world’s oldest continuously operated family business. Unfortunately, the firm went out of business in 2006 due to excess debt and a poor business environment in Japan.

Is there a formula to make a family last for 14 centuries? Here is my list to create an Infinity Company.

• Sustainable Practices: Prioritizes environmental, social, and economic sustainability to ensure long-term viability.
• Innovation and Adaptability: Continuously innovates and adapts to new technologies, market demands, and industry trends.
• Resilient Leadership: Maintains strong, visionary leadership capable of navigating challenges and steering the company towards future opportunities.
• Enduring Values: Upholds core values and principles that resonate with employees, customers, and stakeholders across generations.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Focuses on building lasting relationships with customers by consistently delivering value and exceptional experiences.
• Employee Engagement: Invests in the growth and well-being of employees, fostering a loyal and motivated workforce.
• Community Involvement: Actively engages with and supports the communities in which it operates, contributing to social and economic development.

Wisdom to Fuel Your Business Growth

When you review this list, you can clearly see how embedded great marketing, branding, and storytelling is to build an Infinity Company. 

• Forever evolving, always relevant.
• Continuously breaking new ground and setting standards.
• Building on a storied past while forging a dynamic future.
• Committed to a future without limits.
• Leading the way across generations with enduring impact.
• A vision that extends beyond the present, reaching for limitless potential.

By framing your company in these terms, you emphasize its commitment to long-term success, continuous innovation, and sustainable growth. 

To infinity and beyond!