Billion Dollar Buyer Season 1 Episode 3 These Aren't Babies, This Is Merchandise

In Billion Dollar Buyer season 1 episode 3, titled "These Aren't Babies, This Is Merchandise," hospitality mogul Tilman Fertitta meets with two separate businesses to see if they have what it takes to earn his business.

The first business Tilman meets with is The Gem Creamery, a family-owned ice cream company that has been in business for 85 years. The owner, George, tells Tilman about the history of the company and how they handcraft their ice cream in small batches. Tilman tastes some of the flavors and is impressed with the quality and taste. However, he questions the scalability of the business and whether or not it can keep up with the demands of a larger operation. Tilman also challenges George to come up with a unique flavor that can be marketed as a flagship flavor for the company. George takes Tilman's advice and comes up with a flavor that Tilman loves, but ultimately decides that the business is not ready for a partnership.

Next, Tilman meets with Heather and Mike, the owners of a baby product company called Baby Jack & Co. The company specializes in baby toys, specifically "blanket toys" that are meant for sensory development. Heather and Mike pitch their product to Tilman and explain the benefits of their toys for babies. Tilman likes the concept of the business, but questions their marketing strategy and pricing. Heather and Mike explain that they have had success at local farmer's markets and craft shows, but have had trouble breaking into larger retailers. Tilman challenges the couple to come up with a more effective marketing plan and suggests that they need to re-evaluate their pricing in order to be profitable. In the end, Tilman decides to partner with the couple and offers them the opportunity to sell their products in his hotels and casinos.

Throughout the episode, Tilman stresses the importance of scalability and marketing in order for businesses to succeed. He also shows that he is willing to give advice and guidance to businesses in order to help them improve.