The DTC pioneers in this case study — which include intimates brand Meundies and beauty brand Trinny London along with Marine Layer — prioritized profitability from the start. In taking a closer look at each of their paths to growth and the challenges they confronted along the way, this case study identifies pillars of profitability that other DTC brands can apply: making money on every item sold; finding outreach channels that nurture a loyal base of customers who will contribute to sales growth; investing in a cost-effective physical retail strategy that drives new and repeat business; and leveraging the disrupted digital advertising market.