BenjiLock was started in 2013 by Robbie Cabral with a simple yet powerful idea: to create a fingerprint-activated padlock that also works with a traditional key.
This innovative product quickly caught people’s attention because it solved a common problem, losing keys or forgetting lock combinations. At the same time, it offered a modern solution that was both reliable and easy to use.
In October 2017, Robbie brought BenjiLock to Season 9, Episode 4 of Shark Tank. He asked the Sharks for $200,000 in exchange for 10% equity. Robbie’s pitch stood out not only for the product’s unique design but also for his personal story of resilience.
He shared how he poured everything into the business after losing his job the day his daughter was born. The Sharks were impressed with his passion and the lock’s potential.
After receiving multiple offers, Robbie partnered with Kevin O’Leary. Kevin offered $200,000 for 15% equity and brought experience with licensing, making him the perfect fit to help scale the product.
After Shark Tank, BenjiLock’s growth took off. A licensing deal with Hampton Products International secured placements in major retailers like Walmart, Lowe’s, Home Depot, ACE Hardware, and Amazon.
By 2024, BenjiLock achieved $5 million in annual revenue. The product line also expanded beyond padlocks to include Fingerprint Door Locks and Fingerprint Bike Locks. This expansion showed that continuous innovation can drive long-term success.
The product earned industry recognition, including the CES 2017 Innovation Award. This award added credibility and attracted more attention to BenjiLock’s brand. Robbie’s story is a reminder that resilience and the right partnerships can turn a simple idea into a thriving business.
BenjiLock’s success story is filled with practical lessons for entrepreneurs. From creating solutions people truly need to choosing the right partners, here are five key takeaways that can help you build and grow your business.
5 Simple Business Lessons You Can Learn from BenjiLock
1. Solve a Real-World Problem with a Simple Solution
Robbie Cabral recognized a common frustration that people faced every day, losing keys or forgetting lock combinations, especially at gyms. He turned this simple yet widespread issue into an opportunity. By creating a solution that combined modern technology with traditional reliability, he addressed a real need.
“I noticed stress lurking in the locker rooms…people actually knocking on their locker doors because they left their keys inside or forgot their combinations.”
Solution:
Robbie introduced BenjiLock, a padlock that uses fingerprint technology to unlock. At the same time, it offered a traditional key backup. This ensured that even if the technology failed, the product remained useful and reliable.
This combination of innovation and practicality made BenjiLock stand out. It appealed to a broad range of users looking for both security and convenience.
Focus on solving everyday problems with simple and practical solutions. The best products are those that improve lives without unnecessary complexity.
Takeaway:
By identifying a gap in the market and offering a reliable solution, Robbie created a product that connected with people. Entrepreneurs should look for overlooked problems. Develop solutions that are innovative yet easy for customers to adopt.
2. Resilience and Perseverance Lead to Success
Robbie’s story is a powerful example of perseverance. After losing his job on the same day his daughter was born, he didn’t give up. Instead, he invested $87,000 of his own savings to bring BenjiLock to life. He pushed through financial and emotional challenges to build something meaningful.
“The day I got laid off, my daughter was born. I said, ‘Man, I’m just going to try to push it for my family and my friends.’”
Robbie
Solution:
Robbie’s persistence paid off. His hard work earned BenjiLock the CES 2017 Innovation Award, boosting its credibility. This recognition caught the attention of major retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, and Amazon. By staying focused and determined, Robbie turned his setbacks into opportunities for growth.
When faced with challenges, remember that perseverance and hard work can turn tough situations around. Success often comes to those who refuse to quit.
Takeaway:
Robbie’s journey proves that persistence and belief in your vision can overcome even the toughest challenges. By staying committed to your goals, you can achieve results that once seemed impossible.
3. Choose Strategic Partners Who Accelerate Growth
Choosing the right partners can be a game-changer for any business. Robbie partnered with Kevin O’Leary (Mr. Wonderful), who helped him secure a licensing deal with Hampton Products International. This partnership enabled BenjiLock to scale quickly and enter new markets.
“If you want to go the partnership route with a giant global distributor, I’m your guy. I’m a beast on licensing deals.”
Kevin O’Leary
Solution:
With Kevin’s expertise and Hampton’s resources, BenjiLock products became widely available. Major stores like Walmart, Lowe’s, ACE Hardware, and Amazon carried the product.
By 2024, BenjiLock achieved $5 million in annual revenue. This success showed the value of aligning with partners who bring strategic value to your business.
Identify partners who can provide the expertise, resources, or market access your business needs. The right partnership can help you grow faster and reach your goals sooner.
Takeaway:
Partnering with experts who align with your vision can take your business to the next level. A strong partnership brings credibility, access, and scalability, keys to long-term success.
4. Expand and Diversify Your Product Line
Successful businesses grow by evolving their products. After launching the original BenjiLock padlock, Robbie expanded the product line to include Fingerprint Door Locks and Fingerprint Bike Locks. These products addressed new needs and tapped into additional markets.
“There’s one right now that is just waiting for me to take action.” – Robbie Cabral
Solution:
Robbie introduced the Fingerprint Door Lock in 2020. He later launched the Fingerprint Bike Lock in 2021, which won the TWICE CES Innovation Award. These new products allowed BenjiLock to reach new customer segments. At the same time, they maintained the company’s focus on innovation and quality.
Don’t stop at one successful product. Expand thoughtfully by identifying related needs that your business can solve. Diversifying your offerings can open new opportunities and keep your business growing.
Takeaway:
Growth requires evolution. By expanding its product line, BenjiLock was able to meet the needs of different customers. This strategy increased its market share. Look for ways to build on your success and stay relevant in a changing market.
5. Leverage Recognition and Awards to Build Credibility
Industry recognition can boost your business’s reputation and open doors to new opportunities. BenjiLock’s win at the CES 2017 Innovation Awards validated its technology. It also positioned the company as a leader in the smart security market.
“The Consumer Electronics Show is full of people and innovators…so it’s very impressive to me that you won that.” – Lori Greiner
Solution:
The CES award gave BenjiLock instant credibility. This recognition helped attract interest from investors like Kevin O’Leary. It also facilitated retail partnerships with major stores such as Walmart and Amazon. Awards like this reassure customers, partners, and investors that your product offers real value.
Pursue awards and recognition in your industry to establish credibility and build trust. Awards can give your business the boost it needs to stand out from the competition.
Takeaway:
Winning awards isn’t just about prestige. It’s about proving your product’s value and building trust with your audience. Use recognition to attract investors, partners, and customers who believe in what you offer.