This month we chatted with fellow OBA member and OBA Board Member, Bethany Donovan from Akers Digital. Akers Digital collaborates with outdoor brands to reach their peak through innovative and effective digital marketing and E-commerce services.
1. Can you tell us about Akers Digital’s journey and how it has become a part of the outdoor industry? What inspired the company’s involvement in outdoor-related initiatives?
At Akers Digital, everything started with passion for the outdoors and a clear goal to help outdoor brands reach their goals. Tim, the founder, kicked off Akers Digital in 2015 by merging his digital marketing savvy with his love for the great outdoors, spotting a chance to boost outdoor brands, ramp up participation, and open up more access to nature. Today, Akers Digital is a team of four outdoor enthusiasts, fueled by the same desire to explore and connect with nature that drives our clients. We understand the language of the outdoors, the challenges, and the triumphs. Which is why we partner with outdoor brands so effectively, helping them connect with their audience at the perfect moment, on the perfect path.
2. As digital technologies continue to evolve, what emerging opportunities do you see for outdoor businesses to leverage digital tools for growth and sustainability, and how can Akers Digital assist in navigating these opportunities?
The digital world is a playground of opportunities, and it’s growing every day and we see lots of opportunities for outdoor brands to use technology to cultivate growth and sustainability. We’re particularly stoked about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance customer interactions and streamline marketing efforts. At the same time, we’re exploring the MarTech landscape to boost outcomes even further. This includes forging partnerships with TripleWhale for top-notch cross-channel attribution and analytics, emphasizing the growing significance of email and first-party data as Klaviyo Gold Partners, and harnessing cutting-edge advertising solutions through strategic alliances with Basis Technologies, Google Ads, and Meta. There’s so much potential out there, and we’re here to help brands tap into it.
3. What unique services or solutions does Akers Digital provide to businesses within the outdoor industry?
At Akers Digital, we focus on driving brands to the peak of digital and eCommerce success, particularly within the outdoor industry. Our services include managed digital advertising across platforms like Google, social media, and DSP/Programmatic channels, as well as comprehensive email marketing and eCommerce solutions through Shopify and Shopify Plus. As partners with Google Ads, Klaviyo, Meta, Shopify, and TripleWhale, we bring tools and insights to every campaign.
Our approach is transparent, guiding brands through the digital landscape with clear insights into what works and what doesn’t. Our knowledge of analytics, digital advertising, and the outdoor market allows us to not only enhance the sales funnel but also ensure that our strategies are aligned with a brand’s goals. Since 2015, we have been committed to boosting the marketing efforts of outdoor brands, helping them navigate from customer acquisition to conversion smoothly.
Our approach is transparent, guiding brands through the digital landscape with clear insights into what works and what doesn’t. Our knowledge of analytics, digital advertising, and the outdoor market allows us to not only enhance the sales funnel but also ensure that our strategies are aligned with a brand’s goals. Since 2015, we have been committed to boosting the marketing efforts of outdoor brands, helping them navigate from customer acquisition to conversion smoothly.
4. As a member of the Outdoor Business Alliance, what benefits has Akers Digital experienced from this membership, and could you share any examples of successful collaborations with other OBA members?
Being part of the Outdoor Business Alliance has been incredibly beneficial for Akers Digital. The OBA community is vibrant and full of like-minded companies that are as passionate about the outdoors as we are. This shared enthusiasm has opened the door to collaborations that align closely with our mission to help outdoor brands thrive online. We also love the Marketing roundtables! They’re a fantastic chance to meet and mingle with fellow marketing pros who are all riding the same waves in this wild marketing world. The talks are always lively, packed with insights, and we never walk away without learning something new.
