Jason Lodge, the former popcorn salesman turned entrepreneur, now heads SCORE NN’, a million-dollar venture specializing in garden games sold on platforms like Amazon and Scheels. Predicted to see a threefold growth according to current sales tendencies, Lodge’s path from popcorn sales during his Cub Scouts years to garden games marketing is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit.
Not stopping there, Lodge accumulated an impressive $25,000 by the tender age of 18 through dog-sitting and part-time roles at Subway and Ashely Furniture warehouse. This momentum continued post-high school when Lodge transitioned into the high-end cutlery industry, amassing an extra $30,000.
Reflecting a trending pattern, Lodge joins the increasing number of people establishing and running personal million-dollar businesses. In 2021, 53,460 non-employer businesses were reported, indicating a 48% growth since 2012. Out of this, 536 businesses reported earnings exceeding $5 million. This upward trend suggests a growing willingness for individuals to venture into self-employment.
Pandemic or not, these businesses have demonstrated resilience and growth.
Popcorn sales to garden game success: Lodge’s journey
This unprecedented success is facilitated by advancements in digital tools, remote work culture, changing consumer habits, and the increasing inclusion of entrepreneurship in university curriculums. According to experts, this trend will persist in the foreseeable future, potentially transforming the conventional business approach.
Lodge attributes his success to the inspiration he drew from other entrepreneurs on YouTube. His business idea originated from a hobby — skipping stones. Developing a perfect plastic version of the classic game at the Makerspace in Arizona State University, Lodge blended creativity with business acumen. His passion for skipping stones transfigured into a profitable business venture.
Lodge’s success on the online platform got its first upliftment through a pop-up shop at the Sun Devil Marketplace Store. This unique opportunity allowed Lodge to refine his product line and learn about customer preferences, improving the business model and growth strategy.
From his entrepreneurial adventure, Lodge teaches us about the power of perseverance, adaptability, innovation, and the significant role of seizing opportunities. The changing dynamics of the gig economy and the rise of personal million-dollar businesses offer a promising horizon for aspiring entrepreneurs.
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