A Simple Problem That Sparked a Million-Dollar Idea
Every great invention starts with frustration, and Drop Stop is proof of that. Marc Newburger and Jeffrey Simon were tired of watching their phones, keys, and coins vanish into the tiny gap between the car seat and center console — the dreaded “black hole” of every vehicle. One day, while driving, Marc nearly caused an accident when his phone slipped into that space. That close call made him realize this wasn’t just an inconvenience — it was a safety hazard.
Marc recalls: “I remember seeing my phone fall, and my instinct was to grab it. I almost swerved into traffic. That’s when I said — this gap is dangerous. We need to fix it.”
Together, the two friends began experimenting with materials in their garage. They tested everything from socks to sponges before finally developing a wedge-style filler made from neoprene and fiberfill, designed to fit snugly between the seat and console. Their invention moved easily with the seat, stayed in place, and prevented anything from falling through. It was practical, affordable, and universal — the kind of idea that makes people wonder, “Why didn’t anyone think of this before?”
Stepping into the Spotlight: The Shark Tank Pitch
In 2013, Marc and Jeffrey took their invention to Shark Tank during Season 4, Episode 20. Their pitch was simple yet powerful: “Who hasn’t dropped something between the car seat and console?” They demonstrated how their product worked and even joked about losing fries, phones, and jewelry in that space — instantly connecting with the Sharks and millions of viewers at home.
They asked for $300,000 in exchange for 15% equity, but after a sharp discussion and impressive sales numbers, Lori Greiner stepped in with an offer: $300,000 for 20%. Known as the “Queen of QVC,” Lori immediately saw its potential for retail success. Her investment not only gave Drop Stop the credibility it needed but also positioned it for massive growth in stores and online.
Jeffrey shared later: “When Lori said she’d partner with us, it felt like the moment everything changed. We knew we had the right product, but now we had the right person behind it.”
Rising Sales and Remarkable Growth
After Shark Tank, Drop Stop became an instant hit. Before their appearance, the company had made roughly $1.3 million in profit since its 2009 launch. But once the episode aired, sales skyrocketed. With Lori’s help, the product appeared in major retailers like Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and AutoZone, and became a featured favorite on QVC.
According to updates, Drop Stop has now exceeded $80 million in retail sales, proving how a small, clever idea can grow into a household name. The product’s success can be credited to several factors — universal appeal, practical design, safety benefits, and brand authenticity. Customers across the country praised it for solving an everyday annoyance in seconds, and the “As Seen on Shark Tank” tag gave it strong consumer trust.
“We weren’t trying to create a gimmick,” Marc explained. “We wanted something that genuinely makes driving safer and simpler — and that’s why people love it.”
Beating Copycats and Staying True to the Mission
With success came competition. Dozens of knockoffs appeared online, mimicking Drop Stop’s design at cheaper prices. But Marc and Jeffrey stayed ahead by protecting their patent, maintaining premium quality, and reinforcing their identity as the original seat-gap filler.
The founders focused on what mattered most — trust and performance. While competitors cut corners, Drop Stop continued to use durable neoprene material and universal sizing that fits nearly every car model. Reviews across Amazon and other platforms consistently highlight its perfect fit, long-lasting build, and nearly invisible appearance once installed.
“We learned early that being first isn’t enough,” Jeffrey said. “You have to stay the best — and that means never compromising on quality.”
Lessons for Entrepreneurs: From Idea to Impact
The Drop Stop story offers valuable lessons for inventors and business enthusiasts alike. First, solve a real-world problem that everyone experiences — that’s where true opportunity lies. Second, keep it simple. The best solutions don’t require complex technology or massive investment. Third, find the right partner — someone who believes in the vision and can scale it. And finally, protect what makes your brand unique while constantly improving your product and customer experience.
What makes this story motivational isn’t just the sales figures — it’s the determination behind them. Two ordinary friends identified a small but universal problem, acted on it, and refused to give up. Their invention now helps millions of drivers stay safer and more focused on the road.
Still Rocking the Roads Today
More than a decade later, Drop Stop remains a top-selling car accessory across multiple platforms. It has tens of thousands of five-star reviews, a strong retail presence, and an ongoing reputation as a must-have car safety tool. Customers appreciate its affordability (around $20–25 per set), universal fit, and the peace of mind it brings.
The founders continue to emphasize their mission:
“We’re not just selling a piece of foam — we’re helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.”
It’s a simple message, but it captures everything Drop Stop stands for: innovation through necessity, success through persistence, and safety through simplicity.
You can purchase drop-stop product directly DropStop website or from amazon.
Purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Drop-Stop-Original-Patented-Filler/dp/B00BYH6C1E
