From Sleep-Deprived Dad to $850K in 9 Months: The Morrison Outdoors Story

The "Aha!" Moment in the Great Outdoors

Ever been so frustrated with a problem that you just had to solve it yourself? That's exactly what happened to Tavis Malcolm, the founder of Morrison Outdoors. Seven years ago, Tavis and his wife embarked on a family camping trip with their newborn son. Sounds idyllic, right? Think again. They were struggling to find a suitable sleeping bag for their little one. No matter what they tried, nothing seemed quite right.

In a desperate attempt to keep baby Morrison warm, they bundled him in layers upon layers – pajamas, a snowsuit, even a swaddle blanket! It was a comical, albeit stressful, situation. But within that struggle, a lightbulb went off. A former Eagle Scout and hailing from a family of entrepreneurs, Tavis realized there was a serious gap in the market. This was the “aha” moment that would change his life forever.

Quitting the 9-to-5: A Risky Leap of Faith

Fast forward to June 2018. Tavis Malcolm made a bold decision: he quit his marketing job. It wasn't a rash move, but a calculated risk fueled by passion and the burning desire to solve a problem he personally understood. He believed in his idea, and he was willing to bet everything on it. He announced his decision to his wife, "Listen, I think that this could be something serious. I want to quit my job, I want to take our savings."

The $3,000 Gamble: Seed Money for Success

How much savings do you think they had? A king's ransom? Nope. Just $3,000. Three thousand dollars. That's it. Imagine putting all your eggs into one basket, knowing that basket is filled with dreams but supported by a meager budget. Most people would balk, but Tavis saw an opportunity where others saw an obstacle. This was a testament to his unwavering belief in Morrison Outdoors.

The Birth of Morrison Outdoors: Garage Startup to Shark Tank Stage

Six months after leaving his job, Morrison Outdoors officially launched. Tavis and his wife transformed their garage into a makeshift workshop, pouring their heart and soul into creating safe, comfortable, and practical sleeping bags for babies and toddlers. It was a true bootstrapped operation, built from the ground up with ingenuity and determination. Fast forward again to Friday’s episode of ABC’s “Shark Tank”.

Seeking the Sharks: A $300,000 Ask

Tavis found himself pitching to the notoriously tough panel of investor judges on "Shark Tank." He asked for $300,000 in exchange for 10% equity in his business. It was a high-stakes gamble, but he knew the potential of Morrison Outdoors and the impact it could have on families worldwide. The pressure was on, but Tavis was ready to swim with the sharks.

More Than Just Sleeping Bags: Expanding the Product Line

While the initial focus was on baby and toddler sleeping bags, Morrison Outdoors quickly expanded its product line to include items for adults. Why? Because comfort and quality should be enjoyed by everyone, not just the little ones! This strategic diversification allowed them to reach a wider audience and increase their revenue potential. It wasn't just about solving a problem; it was about building a brand.

Understanding the Customer: The Key to Success

The key to Morrison Outdoors' success wasn't just the products themselves; it was the deep understanding of their customer. Parents want safe, reliable, and easy-to-use products for their children. They also value quality and durability. By focusing on these key needs, Morrison Outdoors was able to build a loyal customer base and establish a strong reputation.

The Power of Problem-Solving: Turning Frustration into Opportunity

Tavis Malcolm's story is a perfect example of how frustration can be a catalyst for innovation. He encountered a problem, identified a gap in the market, and created a solution. This is the essence of entrepreneurship. It's about seeing opportunities where others see inconveniences and turning those opportunities into thriving businesses. His ability to identify and solve a personal problem for other parents proved to be very lucrative.

Eagle Scout Values: The Foundation of the Business

Coming from a family of business owners, Tavis's values were heavily influenced by his background as an Eagle Scout. Integrity, hard work, and a commitment to service are all principles that he brought to Morrison Outdoors. These values not only shaped the company's culture but also contributed to its success. Who knew a camping trip could lead to a Shark Tank appearance!

$850,000 in 9 Months: Numbers Don't Lie

Here's the kicker: in just nine months, Morrison Outdoors generated $850,000 in revenue. Let that sink in. From a $3,000 investment to nearly a million dollars in sales in less than a year. It's an incredible feat that speaks volumes about the product's quality, the brand's appeal, and Tavis Malcolm's entrepreneurial spirit. Now that's impressive!

The Impact of "Shark Tank": A National Spotlight

Appearing on "Shark Tank" provided Morrison Outdoors with invaluable exposure. The show reaches millions of viewers, and the resulting publicity can be a game-changer for small businesses. Whether or not Tavis secured a deal with the sharks, the appearance alone was a significant win.

Beyond the Dollars: Building a Brand with a Mission

Morrison Outdoors is more than just a business; it's a brand with a mission. Tavis Malcolm is committed to providing families with high-quality, safe, and comfortable products that enhance their outdoor experiences. He wants to make it easier for parents to enjoy adventures with their children, knowing that their little ones are warm, safe, and sound.

Sustainable Practices: Caring for the Environment

In today's world, sustainability is more important than ever. Morrison Outdoors is committed to using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices whenever possible. This not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also aligns with the company's overall values.

Lessons Learned: The Entrepreneurial Journey

Tavis Malcolm's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a relentless focus on customer needs. He took a risk, bet on himself, and built a successful business from the ground up. His story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Take the Leap!

What's the biggest takeaway from this story? If you have a passion, an idea, and the drive to succeed, don't be afraid to take the leap. It won't be easy, but with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Who knows, maybe you'll be the next entrepreneur pitching your idea on "Shark Tank"! Don't be afraid to fail because failing forward is an investment in future success!

The Future of Morrison Outdoors: What's Next?

With its current success, the future of Morrison Outdoors looks bright. With continued innovation, a strong focus on customer satisfaction, and a commitment to sustainability, this is a brand that is poised for long-term growth. Keep an eye out for this inspiring and innovative company.

Conclusion: The Power of One Good Idea

Tavis Malcolm's story is a powerful reminder that one good idea, coupled with hard work and determination, can lead to incredible success. He saw a problem, created a solution, and built a thriving business in the process. From a camping trip mishap to a "Shark Tank" appearance and nearly a million dollars in revenue, Morrison Outdoors is a true inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Morrison Outdoors and Tavis Malcolm's entrepreneurial journey:

1. What inspired Tavis Malcolm to start Morrison Outdoors?

   A frustrating camping trip with his newborn son, where he couldn't find a suitable sleeping bag.

2. How much initial investment did Tavis Malcolm put into Morrison Outdoors?

   He invested $3,000 from his savings.

3. What are the main products that Morrison Outdoors sells?

   Sleeping bags for babies and toddlers, as well as a selection of products for adults.

4. What was Tavis Malcolm's ask on "Shark Tank"?

   He asked for $300,000 in exchange for 10% equity in his business.

5. What is the key to Morrison Outdoors' success?

   Understanding the customer's needs, providing high-quality products, and a commitment to sustainability.