Zero to $250M in 10 Years?! The Incredible Growth Strategy of Simple Modern

Bryan is the co-founder and chief e-commerce officer at Simple Modern. Simple Modern is a digitally native brand, having sold 50 million bottles in less than 10 years and did $250M in 2024. Simple Modern has grown into a category leader in all 50 states and eight countries around the world, making products that are good everywhere.

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> Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. 

• Overview of Simple Modern's growth and success in the drinkware market.
• Discussion of the company's journey from inception in 2015 to achieving $250 million in gross revenue in 2024.
• Importance of product quality and innovative design in driving brand success.
• Strategic decisions made by Simple Modern, including focus on drinkware and partnerships with major retailers.
• Challenges faced by the company, particularly in cash flow management and manufacturing defects.
• The role of effective marketing strategies, including leveraging social media platforms like TikTok.
• Insights on the significance of competition in the drinkware market and its impact on brand awareness.
• The value of strong relationships with manufacturers and partners in navigating business challenges.
• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making and quick feedback cycles in e-commerce.
• Advice for entrepreneurs on resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a long-term focus in a competitive landscape.

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Bryan Porter, co-founder and Chief E-commerce Officer of Simple Modern. They discuss Simple Modern's impressive journey from its inception in 2015 to achieving $250 million in gross revenue by 2024. Bryan shares insights into the strategic decisions that propelled the brand to success, including a focus on product quality, innovative design, and effective marketing. He emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships, cash flow management, and resilience in overcoming challenges. This episode offers valuable lessons for business owners aiming to scale their e-commerce ventures to new heights.

Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:

1. Master Cash Flow Early

   • Hire a strong CFO and explore flexible financing options—like delayed tax payments or supplier credit—to avoid growth bottlenecks.

2. Double Down on Key Partnerships

   • Build deep, win-win relationships with select manufacturers to secure favorable terms and reduce inventory pressure.

3. Always Be Amazon-Ready

   • Know the pros and cons of 1P vs. 3P selling, and have a solid contingency plan to handle unexpected platform disruptions.

Resources & Links Section

• Ecomm Breakthrough
• Amazon
• TikTok Shop
• Target
• Walmart
• Whole Foods
• Disney
• FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon)
• Vendor Central
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