Life in Plastic, It’s Fantastic: Unpacking Barbie’s Corporate Evolution

If you’re a Boomer like me, or a Gen Xer, you’ll fondly recall the very beginning days of color TV, featuring Fred Flintstone yelling, ‘Wilma!’ and George Jetson complaining about his sprockets. Ah, nostalgia! However, while many icons from that era might simply collect dust on the shelf, our girl Barbie has done more than just survive.

Today, with over 1,000 different Barbie doll types and well over $1 billion in sales it’s no wonder how she’s skillfully tip-toed in her signature pink pumps from being a fashion faux pas to embodying feminist flair, diversity and equality. And there’s much your business can learn from her transformation.

It’s Not Easy Being Barbie (Or Is It?)

Barbie, in her heyday, was as controversial as pineapple on pizza. With an hourglass figure that defied all human anatomy, she was the apple of every eye-roll from mothers concerned about body image. Yet, she’s managed to not only survive but also reinvent herself into a modern-day representation of “every woman” flaws, cellulite and all.

So, businesses, listen up! If Barbie can go from “life in plastic” to “life fantastic,” so can you.

Nip, Tuck, and a Whole Lotta Strategy