How I made 1.4 millions DOLLARS in a year, but still broke. Part 1 FilmNeverDie founder story

Summary

In this video, the creator shares his remarkable journey of building a $1.4 million business on Shopify, focusing on the niche market of Polaroid film. Initially starting by selling film to fulfill his own needs, he discovered a significant demand and turned it into a thriving business. Despite the success, he candidly discusses the challenges, including being let go from a prestigious job and the struggles of finding suppliers. The video also touches on the personal growth and the philosophy behind 'film never die,' emphasizing the value of storytelling through limited shots and the discipline it instills.

Takeaways

• 📈 The speaker made $1.4 million on Shopify by selling film for Polaroid cameras, despite the initial lack of availability.
• 🏆 They received an appreciation plate from Shopify for making 100,000 orders, showcasing the success of their business.
• 🎞️ The business started in 2011 when the speaker couldn't find film for a Polaroid camera they wanted to gift their partner.
• 🔍 The Impossible Project saved the last Polaroid factory, which led to the creation of new film but with only 8 shots instead of the original 10.
• 🛍️ The initial sales were made on eBay, where the speaker bought 60 packs of film and quickly sold them due to high demand.
• 📈 The business, Film Never Die, expanded from selling film to also selling Polaroid cameras after noticing the potential market.
• 🏡 They transitioned from an eBay shop to a physical location in Park Wheel, utilizing a unique apartment setup to run the business.
• 📸 The speaker's interest in film photography grew as they realized the storytelling potential of film cameras with their quality and limited shots.
• 💼 The speaker was let go from a Big Four consulting firm, which led to a full commitment to growing Film Never Die.
• 🏢 The business faced challenges like securing suppliers and maintaining a physical location without causing disturbance to neighbors.
• 🔗 The speaker mentions partnerships and collaborations, such as with Michaels and Susan SE, which helped in expanding their business presence.

Q & A

What was the initial reason for starting Film Never Die?

The business started in 2011 because the founder wanted to buy a Polaroid camera for his then-girlfriend but couldn't find any film. This led to the discovery of a demand for Polaroid film, which was scarce at the time.

How did Film Never Die transition from a side hustle to a full-fledged business?

Film Never Die began as a side hustle while the founder was working for a Big 4 consulting firm. After being let go from the firm, the founder decided to fully commit to Film Never Die, which eventually grew into a successful business.

What was the significance of The Impossible Project in relation to Film Never Die?

The Impossible Project saved the last Polaroid factory, enabling the production of new film. This was significant for Film Never Die as it provided a source of film that was in high demand but scarce.

Why did the founder decide to sell Polaroid cameras in addition to film?

After noticing the demand for Polaroid film, the founder decided to expand the business to include selling Polaroid cameras. This was based on research showing that secondhand Polaroid cameras were affordable and there was a market for them.

How did Film Never Die's initial sales on eBay go?

The initial sales on eBay were successful, with the founder buying 60 packs of film and selling them within three days, indicating a strong market demand for the product.

What challenges did Film Never Die face when starting out?

Film Never Die faced challenges such as securing suppliers, as established companies were not interested in dealing with a new entrant in the market. Additionally, the founder had to manage the business from a garage while working to cover rent.

What was the founder's background before starting Film Never Die?

The founder was previously employed at a top four big four accounting firm but was let go after not surviving probation, primarily due to writing skills not being one of his strengths.

How did Film Never Die's physical location impact its early growth?

Having a garage with a separate entrance in Park Wheel allowed Film Never Die to operate a physical store in addition to online sales. This unique setup contributed to the business's early growth, as it attracted walk-in customers.

What is the significance of the 'Film Never Die Uncensored' initiative mentioned in the script?

Film Never Die Uncensored is an initiative aimed at making the brand more vulnerable and transparent. It involves sharing behind-the-scenes stories, challenges, and lessons learned in growing the brand from zero to $1.4 million a year.

Why did the founder decide to focus on film photography and its storytelling capabilities?

The founder realized that the quality of photos taken with film cameras, made from metal and glass lenses, was amazing and that a compelling story could be told with just 20-30 photos. This realization led to a focus on the discipline and storytelling aspects of film photography.

What was the founder's experience like when he was let go from the Big 4 consulting firm?

The founder had a difficult experience being let go from the firm, having to pack his belongings and leave immediately. He used humor to cope with the situation, jokingly telling his girlfriend that he was promoted to CEO of Film Never Die.