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Because there was money in legit sponsors back then, because Nike and Adidas hadn't swept up 70% of the market and there weren't 600,000 deck companies. If people could still make a decent wage riding for DVS then they would. The money has moved.
I know I'm like a broken record on here. And most probably roll their eyes and perhaps think I'm trolling on this...
But I blame nike and adidas. For the all the good things they have done , they have completely changed the game.. for the worse. As you say the money has moved elsewhere.
I'd also wager there wouldn't be so many surplus board sponsors if people could get a decent wage out of their existing sponsors.
Nike and adidas did change the game to some extent. It would be interesting to compare salaries and benefits of those brands vs. what sole tech would pay/provide.
When it comes to decks and brands though, I think a large reason we see so many is just the ease of getting them made. It’s never been easier for someone to start a company these days. 10 years ago, you’d need a web designer for a website, now there’s squarespace (10% off with the code “slap pals”) and Shopify had made having an online store a two click operation. Social media has provided a free way to advertise globally, rather than going through traditional media. You can choose a number of places to print your stuff and even have it drop shipped so you’re never actually sitting on inventory.
I’m not saying it’s a good or bad thing, but I am for the average person having access to tools and information. There are for sure to many brands, but I like small business, therefor I guess I am in favour of it, assuming some thought or effort goes into it.