Ep 18. A Progress Report

In the eighteenth episode of season 2 of The Profit, titled "A Progress Report," entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis revisits four businesses that he had previously invested in to see how they have fared since his initial investment.

The first business Lemonis visits is Amazing Grapes, a wine and cheese shop located in California. Lemonis previously invested in the business, but the owner, Ray, had not been meeting Lemonis' expectations. When Lemonis arrives, he notices that Ray has made major improvements in the store including a new logo, updated signage, and new product offerings. Ray also informs Lemonis that he has hired a new chef to create charcuterie boards and small plates to attract more customers. Overall, Lemonis is pleased with the progress Ray has made and decides to offer him additional funding.

Next, Lemonis visits Morelli's, an Italian restaurant in Georgia. Lemonis invested in this restaurant in the hopes of turning it into a chain, but the owner, Tyrone, struggled to manage the business effectively. As Lemonis arrives, he sees that the restaurant has been rebranded as "Tyrone's," with a new logo and menu. Tyrone explains that he took Lemonis' advice and hired a consultant to help with management, leading to increased profits. However, Lemonis is critical of the new logo and menu, stating that it is not in line with his original vision for the business. Despite this, Lemonis offers Tyrone additional funding to help with expanding the business.

The third business Lemonis visits is the candy and gift shop Sweet Pete's in Florida. Lemonis invested in this business along with its owner, Peter, who had a clear vision for expanding the business. Upon arriving, Lemonis is impressed with the new candy-making production line that Peter had installed, and the new product offerings such as homemade ice cream. Peter also reveals that he has obtained a license to sell his products at Disney World, a major accomplishment. Overall, Lemonis is pleased with the progress and offers Peter additional funding to help with expansion.

Lastly, Lemonis visits Coopersburg Sports, a sporting goods company in Pennsylvania. Lemonis had previously invested in this company, but the owner, Rich, struggled with managing cash flow and inventory. Upon arriving, Lemonis sees that the business has made major progress in inventory management and has even developed new products. However, Lemonis is critical of the new products and feels that they do not align with the company's brand. Despite this, Lemonis is pleased with the overall progress and offers additional funding to help with expansion.

Overall, "A Progress Report" showcases the importance of effective management and the impact of Marcus Lemonis' investments. Through revisiting these four businesses, Lemonis shows how his investment and guidance can lead to significant improvements, but that it ultimately relies on the business owner's ability to follow through with his advice.