How do you grow a comic business?
This business case study takes a look at the Supa Strikas brand, a long-running soccer comic series that originated in South Africa and expanded internationally.
It highlights the genesis of the idea, its product development, achieving product-market fit, monetization strategies for media businesses, and scaling the business through various growth models like animation and merchandise. The case study also analyzes the influence of the brand and its continued relevance to date.
Of Shakes Mokena and His Band of Brothers
First there was there was Batman and the Justice League… and then there was Shakes Mokena and The Supa Strikas, a comic that swept through Africa within just 18 months of the initial launch and quickly spread through the globe – capturing the hearts and minds of young girls, boys, and corporates alike.
It started in South Africa and quickly gained momentum, hitting neighboring countries like Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Nigeria, and yes, right here to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. By February 2003, it had reached a total monthly circulation of 1.1 million copies across key African countries. It really went pan-African! This case study is a play-by-play lesson on how to grow a media and sports business. Enjoy!
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