For any company to have a decent shot, they will most likely need a total reset. Everything they have been doing so far needs to be re-assessed based on it's ability to be measurable, scalable, and effective in terms of attaining growth. They will need: training, coaching, new mindset, skills, tools, and routines. And on top of that a zeal and passion. Forget any assurance. If someone gives it to you, it's most likely bogus. That's why I said "decent shot". Doing this for one established company alone is difficult, for 100 something extra-ordinary. Whoever does it will probably need to re-invent themselves in the process, and find a way to scale themselves as Growth Hacking as a Service.

The best way to think about "a niche" is a tribe that gathers around a specific interest. Tribes make superior target groups, because they describe how we relate to other people, and also how information spreads. If your target group is a tribe, they share lots in common that you can use to your advantage: 1) They gather in specific places. Benefit: You can find and target them efficiently 2) They speak a common language. Benefit: You can communicate natively 3) They listen to tribal influencers. Benefit: You can partner with tribal influencers 4) They attend recurring events. Benefit: You can create, sponsor, or attend these events 5) They enjoy sharing similar stories. Benefit: You can create content that they will love 6) They are already courted by other brands. Benefit: You can partner with these brands 7) They share common beliefs, values and world view. Benefit: You can be extremely relevant 8) They are share a passion or interest. Benefit: You can connect through emotions I recommend further reading: 1) How to research tribes, using The Tribal Map http://tribaling.com/blog/2013/06/17/find-your-way-across-the-tribal-web-with-a-map/ 2) How to do Tribal Marketing in social media http://tribaling.com/blog/2013/07/17/tribal-marketing-in-social-media/ 3) Understanding the 7Cs of Tribal Influence http://tribaling.com/blog/2013/08/27/the-7cs-of-tribal-influence/