The Secrets to Scaling a Business

Scaling a business isn’t just about having a great product or idea. It’s about having the right strategies, mindset, and team to take it to the next level. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of scaling more than 23 companies to over $100 million and advising countless entrepreneurs on their journeys. Along the way, I’ve identified key pillars that make all the difference when it comes to sustainable growth. If you’re ready to scale, here’s how to do it like a Shark.

Scaling doesn’t happen without missteps, and that’s okay. Failure is part of the process. Some of my biggest successes came from projects that flopped. For instance, early on, we launched a product that we thought was a surefire hit. We spent months refining it, only for the launch to fall flat. It was a hard $200,000 lesson. But shortly after, we hit gold with the eyeglasses cleaner called Peeps. That product that generated $150 million and sold 15,000 units daily during peak seasons. The biggest takeaway was that failure teaches resilience, helps you refine your strategy, and positions you for the next big win. Keep moving forward with enthusiasm, because you never know if success might be just around the corner.

As a business grows, the demand increases as well as the need for a strong team. Scaling isn’t something you can do alone. The best leaders know how to empower others to step into roles where they can excel. Take our recent venture with Wicked Tuna, where we’re launching over 100 products into major retailers like Samsung and Walmart. My role is to act as an advisor and assemble a stellar team to lead operations, manufacturing, and marketing. The right team is the foundation of sustainable growth.

In business, relationships are just as important as revenue. Investors, customers, and partners all play a role in scaling your business. Focus on building trust and delivering value at every turn. Take Celsius, for example. We started by raising $30 million at $1 per share, then $70 million at $7 per share. Fast forward, we raised $350 million at $62 per share, achieving a $4 billion valuation. The key was to consistently deliver results while maintaining relationships that opened doors to even bigger opportunities. Your reputation is your most valuable asset. Treat every interaction as an opportunity to build trust and create advocates for your business.

You need to be laser-focused on the bigger picture, even when the day-to-day work gets challenging. Each project, whether a success or a failure, contributes to your growth story. When I started out, I couldn’t have imagined where this journey would lead. From pioneering the infomercial industry to scaling global brands. But staying persistent, believing in the vision, and adapting to the market have been the keys to lasting success.

Scaling your business takes courage, strategy, and the willingness to embrace challenges head-on. Whether you’re launching a new product or entering new markets, remember these pillars: learn from failure, empower your team, nurture relationships, and stay focused on your vision.

Best,

Kevin Harrington

Co-Founder of Big Brand Ventures