Biography of Chris Pavlica: Founder of SneakERASERS -Entrepreneur
Biography of Chris Pavlica:
Problem Leads to an Idea
In 2016, Chris Pavlica found himself in a frustrating
situation. Just before an important business meeting, he noticed that his
sneakers were scuffed. Despite trying multiple home remedies, he couldn't get
them clean in time. That moment sparked an idea—what if there was a simple,
effective, on-the-go solution for cleaning shoes?
A College Connection Rekindled
Realizing the potential of his idea, Pavlica immediately
called his college roommate, Kevin Consolo. Consolo shared his enthusiasm and
quickly flew over to meet him. Together, they brainstormed and developed the
first version of SneakERASERS, a specialty cleaning pad designed to remove
scuffs and dirt instantly.
Humble Beginnings in a Garage
Like many entrepreneurs, Pavlica and Consolo started from
scratch. In the early days, their garage served as their production facility.
They worked in an assembly-line fashion, with the help of friends, to create
and package their first products. It was a true grassroots effort.
From Prototype to Retail Shelves
After weeks of testing and refining their product, the duo
officially launched SneakERASERS. The product gained traction quickly, as
people appreciated its ease of use and effectiveness. Soon, it expanded beyond
shoes to include AutoERASERS for car detailing and GolfERASERS for golf
equipment maintenance.
The Big Break: Shark Tank
In early 2020, Pavlica and Consolo took a leap of faith and
pitched SneakERASERS on Season 12 of "Shark Tank." Their impressive
sales numbers caught the Sharks' attention. In 2019, they had already sold
$219,000 worth of product and generated $1.1 million in revenue. The Sharks saw
the potential for growth.
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A Competitive Bidding War
Multiple Sharks made offers, including Kevin O’Leary, who
offered $200,000 for 15% of the company. Guest Shark Alex Rodriguez and Lori
Greiner teamed up to offer the same amount for 20%. Mark Cuban also showed
interest, offering $200,000 for just 12.5% equity.
Negotiation Tensions Rise
Pavlica and Consolo initially aimed for a better deal,
countering Cuban with $300,000 for 10%. However, this caused Cuban to withdraw
his offer. They turned to Rodriguez and Greiner, who refused to lower their
equity demand. Ultimately, the entrepreneurs agreed to their original
offer—$200,000 for 20% of the company.
A Rollercoaster Experience
Although their "Shark Tank" experience was
thrilling, it was also stressful. Pavlica later described it as both
"exciting and traumatic." However, the exposure proved invaluable.
Shortly after the episode aired, SneakERASERS sold out on both Walmart.com and
Amazon.
Shark Tank Success Pays Off
The deal with Lori Greiner led to even more opportunities.
She secured a spot for SneakERASERS on QVC, boosting sales further. The product
also gained national recognition through features on "Good Morning
America," "The Today Show," Footwear News, and BuzzFeed.
Expanding Into Global Markets
With momentum from their "Shark Tank" appearance,
the entrepreneurs looked beyond the U.S. market. SneakERASERS expanded into
Canada, Mexico, South Korea, India, and Australia, quickly becoming a
best-seller in shoe care accessories.
A Multi-Product Brand Emerges
What began as a sneaker cleaner soon evolved into a broader
brand under FTI Brands. The company introduced AutoERASERS for car interiors
and GolfERASERS for golf equipment. They also developed PurseWIPES for cleaning
handbags, proving their ability to innovate across different markets.
Winning Retail Partnerships
By 2021, SneakERASERS had reached over 57,000 retail
locations, including Walmart, CVS, and Target. Their rapid growth earned them a
nomination for Amazon’s Innovator of the Year, solidifying their status as a
leading brand in shoe care and beyond.
Taking Marketing to New Heights
In 2023, the company made a bold marketing move. They
showcased their logo on the famous Sphere in Las Vegas, a massive advertising
feat. The brand humorously teased on social media that they had to sell a lot
of erasers to afford such a grand display, but it was well worth the
investment.
Just Scratching the Surface
Despite their remarkable success, Consolo believes they are
only getting started. He sees vast opportunities for further expansion, both in
retail partnerships and international markets. With their innovative approach
and determination, SneakERASERS is set to reach even greater heights in the
years to come.
Timeline for story
2016 – Chris Pavlica gets the idea for SneakERASERS after
struggling to clean his sneakers.
2016 – Pavlica reconnects with college roommate Kevin
Consolo to develop the product.
2016 – The duo starts production in a garage with friends
helping in assembly.
2017 – SneakERASERS officially launches and gains traction
among customers.
2019 – The company generates $1.1 million in revenue.
2020 – Pavlica and Consolo pitch SneakERASERS on Shark Tank
(Season 12).
2020 – They secure a deal with Lori Greiner and Alex
Rodriguez for $200,000 for 20% equity.
2020 – SneakERASERS sells out on Walmart.com and Amazon
after the Shark Tank episode airs.
2021 – The product reaches 57,000+ retail locations,
including Walmart, CVS, and Target.
2021 – SneakERASERS expands into Canada, Mexico, South
Korea, India, and Australia.
2021 – The company is nominated for Amazon’s Innovator of
the Year.
2023 – SneakERASERS advertises on the Sphere in Las Vegas as
a bold marketing move.
Present – The brand continues expanding into new markets and
retail partnerships.
