“RevZilla is a proof that innovation and teamwork can still allow you to make your own luck, even in tough economic times.” – Anthony Bucci, RevZilla.com

In 2006, no online retailer addressing the 38 billion dollar per year power sports vertical had truly adopted a next generation, consumer-centric online strategy. The “big bet” was that a “Zappos style” approach to customer service coupled with leading edge eCommerce technology could enable three friends to bootstrap and launch a multi-million dollar online business from the living room of their apartment – without external investment.

From rough idea to a launched eCommerce site in about four months, RevZilla.com began selling motorcycle gear and parts online in November 2007. In spite of the failing economic climate, at the ninety day mark RevZilla.com was cash flow positive and Matt, Nick and Anthony had a feeling their “big bet” could be a winner.

From time to time RevZilla’s founding team can be heard referring to the business’s near instant success as the “perfect storm” of ingredients. Their complimentary skills in internet technology, marketing and design for consumer-facing eCommerce coupled with a shared passion as motorcycle hobbyists lent itself well to developing new ways to serve other motorcyclists online.

The newly minted entrepreneurs’ goal was an old-school mentality about customer loyalty and a new-school mentality about offering customers reasons to stay loyal.

2008 saw version 1.0 of the site growing from 0 to 100,000+ products while operations persisted from the partner’s bedrooms and a small store on the corner of 4th and Fitzwater. Resources were light, marketing budgets and salaries were non-existent as girlfriends grew as tired of tolerating microwavable food and eighteen hour days as the founders. Nick, Matt and Anthony were delighted to hear the Phillies won the World Series that year, or so they’ve been told.

By year’s end, seven figure revenues had blown away expectations. Increased logistical and infrastructure demands led a move to 20,000 sq/ft warehouse headquarters in South Philadelphia.

Capitalizing on the knowledge gained in the 14 months since formation, RevZilla v2.0 launched early in 2009. A highly personalized approach drove dramatic organic sales growth as the customer base grew strong, one rider at a time. The beginnings of a true brand emerged; RevZilla now stood for something much larger than the partners’ hustle and sweat equity.

November marks RevZilla’s 3rd anniversary. RevZilla.com has been lauded the best customer experience within the industry more than once while continuing to grow explosively and devoid of outside investment. Further tech innovation combined with new lifestyle, social media and content initiatives have helped position the company as a virtual destination for motorcyclists versus just another online gear store. “TeamZilla” staff has now grown with top-line revenue and their diligence remains instrumental in the company’s positive impact on the industry.

RevZilla’s plan for continued success on a similarly steep growth curve will be a factor of constant innovation in all aspects of the business with a strong focus on teamwork and a determination to keep the ideals and principals of the founding team intact, no matter the size of the staff, revenues, market share or awards bestowed.

To learn more RevZilla, visit www.RevZilla.com.

RevZilla.com will be honored with the Emerging Business of the Year award at the 28th annual Excellence Awards on November 18. The award is sponsored by Bank of America.  For more information or to register, click here.