Calderano Signs with Joola (#139)

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Here is my take after frustrating experience with the brand positioning, narrative and execution all together. The signing with Hugo Calderano was a massive win for the brand, but from a strategic standpoint, the execution since the announcement has been underwhelming. Having followed the industry closely, it is clear there is a significant "execution gap" between the athlete’s elite status and the brand’s current operational reality.
If this partnership is going to succeed, you Joola people need to address a few critical failure points:
The website is currently plagued by inaccurate launch data and conflicting timelines. In a digital-first market, consumer trust is built on reliable information. When "future product" data is wrong, it doesn't just frustrate fans—it signals a lack of internal communication. Marketing 101 dictates that you must have a clear "call to action" when momentum is high. Currently, the hype is being built, but there is no inventory to catch it. A world-class athlete isn't just a face for a billboard; they are a catalyst for a new product ecosystem. The current marketing feels "standard" when it should be "disruptive." I am seeing a mismatch between the athlete’s gravity and the brand’s current visibility. I could be wrong tho.
You cannot market a "world-class" experience through a "middle-tier" infrastructure. To turn this around, the Joola brand needs to audit its digital roadmap immediately, synchronize its supply chain with its marketing calendar, and provide the community with a transparent, accurate path to purchase. The potential here is enormous, but without operational alignment, even the best athlete in the world can’t carry the brand across the finish line.
A few words about product itself.
To ensure the success of the new Calderano "Gamma" line, Joola must move beyond simple rebranding. For this series to command respect from serious players, it must be established as a distinct entity within the Joola ecosystem. The goal should be a "ground-up" development process rather than recycling existing molds or materials. The line requires a unique design language. This means exclusive lens designs, handle colorways, and a high-end paint finish that isn't shared with the Vyzaryz or other lines. If a customer sees a Calderano blade, they should recognize it instantly from across the room. Joola should prioritize distinct material selections for Gamma. Whether it is a specific weave of Super PBO-C or a unique outer veneer (like high-grade Koto or Hinoki), the "feel" must be proprietary. You guys must avoid the "OEM trap"—using the same generic compositions found in blades from other manufacturers or existing Joola models.
Transparency regarding the country of production is vital for the premium market. To justify a higher price point and distinguish it from mass-market products, Joola should leverage specialized manufacturing hubs (such as high-end Japanese or German facilities) that are reserved specifically for this line.

The worst outcome for this launch would be "re-labeling." If the Gamma series is perceived as a repackaged product from another brand or a previous Joola iteration, it will damage the credibility of the Calderano name. This line must represent a new "peak" in Joola’s engineering, not a marketing shortcut.
I rest my case...
 
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Here is my take after frustrating experience with the brand positioning, narrative and execution all together. The signing with Hugo Calderano was a massive win for the brand, but from a strategic standpoint, the execution since the announcement has been underwhelming. Having followed the industry closely, it is clear there is a significant "execution gap" between the athlete’s elite status and the brand’s current operational reality.
If this partnership is going to succeed, you Joola people need to address a few critical failure points:
The website is currently plagued by inaccurate launch data and conflicting timelines. In a digital-first market, consumer trust is built on reliable information. When "future product" data is wrong, it doesn't just frustrate fans—it signals a lack of internal communication. Marketing 101 dictates that you must have a clear "call to action" when momentum is high. Currently, the hype is being built, but there is no inventory to catch it. A world-class athlete isn't just a face for a billboard; they are a catalyst for a new product ecosystem. The current marketing feels "standard" when it should be "disruptive." I am seeing a mismatch between the athlete’s gravity and the brand’s current visibility. I could be wrong tho.
You cannot market a "world-class" experience through a "middle-tier" infrastructure. To turn this around, the Joola brand needs to audit its digital roadmap immediately, synchronize its supply chain with its marketing calendar, and provide the community with a transparent, accurate path to purchase. The potential here is enormous, but without operational alignment, even the best athlete in the world can’t carry the brand across the finish line.
A few words about product itself.
To ensure the success of the new Calderano "Gamma" line, Joola must move beyond simple rebranding. For this series to command respect from serious players, it must be established as a distinct entity within the Joola ecosystem. The goal should be a "ground-up" development process rather than recycling existing molds or materials. The line requires a unique design language. This means exclusive lens designs, handle colorways, and a high-end paint finish that isn't shared with the Vyzaryz or other lines. If a customer sees a Calderano blade, they should recognize it instantly from across the room. Joola should prioritize distinct material selections for Gamma. Whether it is a specific weave of Super PBO-C or a unique outer veneer (like high-grade Koto or Hinoki), the "feel" must be proprietary. You guys must avoid the "OEM trap"—using the same generic compositions found in blades from other manufacturers or existing Joola models.
Transparency regarding the country of production is vital for the premium market. To justify a higher price point and distinguish it from mass-market products, Joola should leverage specialized manufacturing hubs (such as high-end Japanese or German facilities) that are reserved specifically for this line.

The worst outcome for this launch would be "re-labeling." If the Gamma series is perceived as a repackaged product from another brand or a previous Joola iteration, it will damage the credibility of the Calderano name. This line must represent a new "peak" in Joola’s engineering, not a marketing shortcut.
I rest my case...
Great post. This isn't a surprise to some of us as there was some discussion before about JOOLA and less than ideal management ... this same thing happened with Pitchford but they got somewhat bailed out by Pitch unrelatedly getting injured shortly after the signing.

They have probably already lost a good amount of momentum with the Hugo signing.
 
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With these KLC inner blades made in China, not sure how you could have that big of a difference in a Joola branded one vs one of the domestic Chinese company (Yinhe, sanwei, etc) ones. Wondering if the Joola one is simply a rebranded KLC inner blade from another brand
At least they come clean with the country of origin.

Yinhe Venus.04 ZLC (Made in China) vs Yasaka Alnade (Made in Japan):
亚萨卡vis,看柄的拼花
https://www.sundns.org/discuz/forum.php?mod=viewthread&tid=363413
Yinhe Venus.04 ZLC
https://mytabletennis.net/forum/yinhe-venus-04-zlc_topic53319.html
 
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Here is my take after frustrating experience with the brand positioning, narrative and execution all together. The signing with Hugo Calderano was a massive win for the brand, but from a strategic standpoint, the execution since the announcement has been underwhelming. Having followed the industry closely, it is clear there is a significant "execution gap" between the athlete’s elite status and the brand’s current operational reality.
If this partnership is going to succeed, you Joola people need to address a few critical failure points:
The website is currently plagued by inaccurate launch data and conflicting timelines. In a digital-first market, consumer trust is built on reliable information. When "future product" data is wrong, it doesn't just frustrate fans—it signals a lack of internal communication. Marketing 101 dictates that you must have a clear "call to action" when momentum is high. Currently, the hype is being built, but there is no inventory to catch it. A world-class athlete isn't just a face for a billboard; they are a catalyst for a new product ecosystem. The current marketing feels "standard" when it should be "disruptive." I am seeing a mismatch between the athlete’s gravity and the brand’s current visibility. I could be wrong tho.
You cannot market a "world-class" experience through a "middle-tier" infrastructure. To turn this around, the Joola brand needs to audit its digital roadmap immediately, synchronize its supply chain with its marketing calendar, and provide the community with a transparent, accurate path to purchase. The potential here is enormous, but without operational alignment, even the best athlete in the world can’t carry the brand across the finish line.
A few words about product itself.
To ensure the success of the new Calderano "Gamma" line, Joola must move beyond simple rebranding. For this series to command respect from serious players, it must be established as a distinct entity within the Joola ecosystem. The goal should be a "ground-up" development process rather than recycling existing molds or materials. The line requires a unique design language. This means exclusive lens designs, handle colorways, and a high-end paint finish that isn't shared with the Vyzaryz or other lines. If a customer sees a Calderano blade, they should recognize it instantly from across the room. Joola should prioritize distinct material selections for Gamma. Whether it is a specific weave of Super PBO-C or a unique outer veneer (like high-grade Koto or Hinoki), the "feel" must be proprietary. You guys must avoid the "OEM trap"—using the same generic compositions found in blades from other manufacturers or existing Joola models.
Transparency regarding the country of production is vital for the premium market. To justify a higher price point and distinguish it from mass-market products, Joola should leverage specialized manufacturing hubs (such as high-end Japanese or German facilities) that are reserved specifically for this line.

The worst outcome for this launch would be "re-labeling." If the Gamma series is perceived as a repackaged product from another brand or a previous Joola iteration, it will damage the credibility of the Calderano name. This line must represent a new "peak" in Joola’s engineering, not a marketing shortcut.
I rest my case...
In fairness, part of the delay in release is probably due to the fact that Hugo apparently hasn't even settled on a blade yet. Good luck on Joola not going the OEM route though, everyone except DHS, Stiga, and Butterfly basically have to...
 
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@Scarfed Garchomp Could you please measure the head?
It's a InnerForce type of blades. Often it has head larger than typical 150x157 but of course typical also exists (i.e. Innerfroce ALC). But on the Joola website seems that it's even smaller what is really strange :confused: (150x155)
View attachment 41302
I put rubbers on cut to an MJZLC and FZDALC and it's definitely 157 tall but the Hugo KLCI is definitely a smidge wider, I'd say 152 wide is accurate
 
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Here is my take after frustrating experience with the brand positioning, narrative and execution all together. The signing with Hugo Calderano was a massive win for the brand, but from a strategic standpoint, the execution since the announcement has been underwhelming. Having followed the industry closely, it is clear there is a significant "execution gap" between the athlete’s elite status and the brand’s current operational reality.
If this partnership is going to succeed, you Joola people need to address a few critical failure points:
The website is currently plagued by inaccurate launch data and conflicting timelines. In a digital-first market, consumer trust is built on reliable information. When "future product" data is wrong, it doesn't just frustrate fans—it signals a lack of internal communication. Marketing 101 dictates that you must have a clear "call to action" when momentum is high. Currently, the hype is being built, but there is no inventory to catch it. A world-class athlete isn't just a face for a billboard; they are a catalyst for a new product ecosystem. The current marketing feels "standard" when it should be "disruptive." I am seeing a mismatch between the athlete’s gravity and the brand’s current visibility. I could be wrong tho.
You cannot market a "world-class" experience through a "middle-tier" infrastructure. To turn this around, the Joola brand needs to audit its digital roadmap immediately, synchronize its supply chain with its marketing calendar, and provide the community with a transparent, accurate path to purchase. The potential here is enormous, but without operational alignment, even the best athlete in the world can’t carry the brand across the finish line.
A few words about product itself.
To ensure the success of the new Calderano "Gamma" line, Joola must move beyond simple rebranding. For this series to command respect from serious players, it must be established as a distinct entity within the Joola ecosystem. The goal should be a "ground-up" development process rather than recycling existing molds or materials. The line requires a unique design language. This means exclusive lens designs, handle colorways, and a high-end paint finish that isn't shared with the Vyzaryz or other lines. If a customer sees a Calderano blade, they should recognize it instantly from across the room. Joola should prioritize distinct material selections for Gamma. Whether it is a specific weave of Super PBO-C or a unique outer veneer (like high-grade Koto or Hinoki), the "feel" must be proprietary. You guys must avoid the "OEM trap"—using the same generic compositions found in blades from other manufacturers or existing Joola models.
Transparency regarding the country of production is vital for the premium market. To justify a higher price point and distinguish it from mass-market products, Joola should leverage specialized manufacturing hubs (such as high-end Japanese or German facilities) that are reserved specifically for this line.

The worst outcome for this launch would be "re-labeling." If the Gamma series is perceived as a repackaged product from another brand or a previous Joola iteration, it will damage the credibility of the Calderano name. This line must represent a new "peak" in Joola’s engineering, not a marketing shortcut.
I rest my case...
Just in case you don't know, the ARY-x is already pretty much a "repackaged" Hugo HAL. There's also a major flaw you didn't realise/left out of your statement, people tend to go towards products that aren't too drastically different than staples on the market. The Vyzaryz freeze pretty much flopped (at least I think so, love that thing though) due to the weird limba-alc-limba-kiri construction. You can tell by Joola keeping the Vis clone (HRD) and axing the hidden gem (normal freeze) that true innovation doesn't always pan out as you think.
 
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Just in case you don't know, the ARY-x is already pretty much a "repackaged" Hugo HAL. There's also a major flaw you didn't realise/left out of your statement, people tend to go towards products that aren't too drastically different than staples on the market. The Vyzaryz freeze pretty much flopped (at least I think so, love that thing though) due to the weird limba-alc-limba-kiri construction. You can tell by Joola keeping the Vis clone (HRD) and axing the hidden gem (normal freeze) that true innovation doesn't always pan out as you think.
I love Joola for what they are but I guess they are just focusing on pickleball and cutting their losses on experimental/unique products, which sort of kills it for me, I just want the unique quirky stuff. Take a look at HRD. Same material and construction as viscaria, and around the same price range too. So, why would I buy it over the real viscaria? Imo the best way to go forward for Joola is continue making these unique products so your reputation slowly builds. Doesn't seem like the way they are going forward though...
 
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I love Joola for what they are but I guess they are just focusing on pickleball and cutting their losses on experimental/unique products, which sort of kills it for me, I just want the unique quirky stuff. Take a look at HRD. Same material and construction as viscaria, and around the same price range too. So, why would I buy it over the real viscaria? Imo the best way to go forward for Joola is continue making these unique products so your reputation slowly builds. Doesn't seem like the way they are going forward though...

I have both and HRD not same as Viscaria. Maybe same construction but different speed and feel
 
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Just in case you don't know, the ARY-x is already pretty much a "repackaged" Hugo HAL. There's also a major flaw you didn't realise/left out of your statement, people tend to go towards products that aren't too drastically different than staples on the market. The Vyzaryz freeze pretty much flopped (at least I think so, love that thing though) due to the weird limba-alc-limba-kiri construction. You can tell by Joola keeping the Vis clone (HRD) and axing the hidden gem (normal freeze) that true innovation doesn't always pan out as you think.
The Freeze flopped not because of its construction but because it was an outer ALC blade that retailed at a higher price point than a TB ALC/Viscaria and it also was extremely weak. So you would have basically been paying more money to get a worse TB ALC.

I don't think the Freeze HRD is wildly popular either but at least it fixes the power issue.
 
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The Freeze flopped not because of its construction but because it was an outer ALC blade that retailed at a higher price point than a TB ALC/Viscaria and it also was extremely weak. So you would have basically been paying more money to get a worse TB ALC.

I don't think the Freeze HRD is wildly popular either but at least it fixes the power issue.
You are probably correct on the price factor. I got mine at a very cheap price so maybe my scale is a tad bit off, if we consider the MSRP on Joola's website I probably also wouldn't pick it
 
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Looks like stock of Trinity Charged and Dynamic is landing

 
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Hi all, interesting reading all of your thoughts, definitely agree on some of the points being made here. It's something I'm trying to work on currently, unfortunately the supplier timelines are fairly long so getting new things pushed out is slower right now. Should have some new things coming right up :) when it comes to design for Hugo related products there will definitely be a lot of personalization on colour schemes as you have seen already with the blade he is using and also rubber packaging, clothing etc.

With relation to blades, a lot of manufacturers will opt for what they see is most popular in the market in terms of compositions, there is room for some innovation, but innovating in the blade space can definitely be challenging. There are a few ideas I have to make some different compositions, but will see if I can get them through :)
 
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Here is my take after frustrating experience with the brand positioning, narrative and execution all together. The signing with Hugo Calderano was a massive win for the brand, but from a strategic standpoint, the execution since the announcement has been underwhelming. Having followed the industry closely, it is clear there is a significant "execution gap" between the athlete’s elite status and the brand’s current operational reality.
If this partnership is going to succeed, you Joola people need to address a few critical failure points:
The website is currently plagued by inaccurate launch data and conflicting timelines. In a digital-first market, consumer trust is built on reliable information. When "future product" data is wrong, it doesn't just frustrate fans—it signals a lack of internal communication. Marketing 101 dictates that you must have a clear "call to action" when momentum is high. Currently, the hype is being built, but there is no inventory to catch it. A world-class athlete isn't just a face for a billboard; they are a catalyst for a new product ecosystem. The current marketing feels "standard" when it should be "disruptive." I am seeing a mismatch between the athlete’s gravity and the brand’s current visibility. I could be wrong tho.
You cannot market a "world-class" experience through a "middle-tier" infrastructure. To turn this around, the Joola brand needs to audit its digital roadmap immediately, synchronize its supply chain with its marketing calendar, and provide the community with a transparent, accurate path to purchase. The potential here is enormous, but without operational alignment, even the best athlete in the world can’t carry the brand across the finish line.
A few words about product itself.
To ensure the success of the new Calderano "Gamma" line, Joola must move beyond simple rebranding. For this series to command respect from serious players, it must be established as a distinct entity within the Joola ecosystem. The goal should be a "ground-up" development process rather than recycling existing molds or materials. The line requires a unique design language. This means exclusive lens designs, handle colorways, and a high-end paint finish that isn't shared with the Vyzaryz or other lines. If a customer sees a Calderano blade, they should recognize it instantly from across the room. Joola should prioritize distinct material selections for Gamma. Whether it is a specific weave of Super PBO-C or a unique outer veneer (like high-grade Koto or Hinoki), the "feel" must be proprietary. You guys must avoid the "OEM trap"—using the same generic compositions found in blades from other manufacturers or existing Joola models.
Transparency regarding the country of production is vital for the premium market. To justify a higher price point and distinguish it from mass-market products, Joola should leverage specialized manufacturing hubs (such as high-end Japanese or German facilities) that are reserved specifically for this line.

The worst outcome for this launch would be "re-labeling." If the Gamma series is perceived as a repackaged product from another brand or a previous Joola iteration, it will damage the credibility of the Calderano name. This line must represent a new "peak" in Joola’s engineering, not a marketing shortcut.
I rest my case...
A lot of valid points here for sure, unfortunately the OEM trap is more of an OEM reality. Anybody inside the industry can tell you that there are very few places to go that offer the required quality and reliability to produce something for an athlete of this level, and the amount of time it takes to develop or create that level of production somewhere is not really viable in the short to medium term. The reality is that innovation within OEM production is very hard to come by, and much easier for brands to duplicate and adopt. Holding on to innovation within these circles is more or less impossible. When we developed X3 carbon weave it was almost immediately snapped up by Xiom who created TMX blades using it. Your points are certainly valid, there are just a lot more details and factors/restraints that you would come to understand from being on the brand side of the industry as opposed to the consumer side of the industry.
 
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