Villy Customs - Shark Tank Update

Villy Customs - Cycling

Published Last updated

Season 3, Episode 13 Founded by Fleetwood Hicks In Business

Villy Customs Details

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Shark Tank Episode Details

Founders Fleetwood Hicks
Air Date 2012-05-04
Season & Episode Season 3, Episode 13
Initial Ask $500K for 33.0% equity
Deal Details Got deal: $500K for 42.0% equity from Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban
Estimated Yearly Revenue $8 million
Estimated Net Worth (4x estimated revenue) $32 million

The Shark Tank Pitch

Fleetwood Hicks, a biking enthusiast and serial entrepreneur, brought his custom bicycle business to Season 3 of Shark Tank seeking $500,000 for 33% equity. Villy Customs evolved from his Dallas bike shop where he began customizing standard beach cruisers with painted chains and colored fenders before eventually manufacturing complete custom bikes from scratch.

Named after his dog DeVille ("Villy" for short), the company allowed customers to design their own bicycles online with endless customization options. The bikes were positioned between standard retail bikes and high-end racing bikes, typically priced around $500-$600.

Hicks emphasized the direct-to-consumer model and the website's sophisticated design (created by the same team that designed Porsche's website). After negotiations, he secured a deal with Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran for $500,000 at 42% equity, splitting between both Sharks.

Where Are They Now?

Villy Customs has become one of the most successful Shark Tank bicycle companies, growing significantly since their Tank appearance with Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran's guidance. The company successfully scaled their custom bicycle manufacturing and online customization platform, building a strong brand in the custom bike market.

They've maintained their commitment to quality manufacturing while expanding their product line and improving their direct-to-consumer operations. The business has capitalized on the growing interest in cycling, custom products, and unique recreational vehicles.

Villy Customs has also expanded into corporate and promotional bikes for businesses and brands, adding a B2B revenue stream alongside their consumer business. With estimated annual revenue of $8 million, the company demonstrates how combining customization technology with quality manufacturing can create a successful niche in the competitive bicycle industry.

Their success validates the Sharks' investment and shows how the right mentorship and capital can help scale a specialized manufacturing business.

Revenue

$8 million

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