ZipString, founded by Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam in 2021, is a physics-based toy company with an estimated net worth of $2 million as of 2025, generating revenue through their $29.99 flying string toy that gained popularity after securing a $100,000 investment on Shark Tank Season 14 from Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary for 20% equity, while maintaining production in Johns Creek, Georgia, and distributing to over 50 countries worldwide.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Company Name | ZipString |
| Founders | Stephen Fazio & Austin Hillam |
| Founded | 2021 |
| Product | Flying string toy |
| Shark Tank Deal | $100,000 for 20% equity |
| Current Price | $29.99 |
| Location | Johns Creek, Georgia |
Key Facts About ZipString
- ZipString Corporation launched their innovative physics-based toy in 2021, creating a unique entertainment device that manipulates string through aerodynamic principles.
- The founding team consists of Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam, who developed the product in a Georgia basement facility after being inspired by a physics demonstration.
- Product development required extensive testing and refinement, resulting in a device that propels string at 35 mph while maintaining controlled flight patterns.
- Social media success came rapidly when their TikTok demonstration generated 20 million views within 24 hours of posting in August 2021.
- Shark Tank appearance resulted in a successful deal with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary, securing $100,000 investment for 20% equity stake.
- Manufacturing operations remain based in Johns Creek, Georgia, where the team produces units for distribution to over 50 countries worldwide.
What Makes ZipString Unique?
ZipString represents an innovative approach to toy design, combining physics principles with entertainment. The device creates a floating loop of string that responds to user movements, utilizing a careful balance of gravity, lift, tension, and drag forces. The string follows any movement the user makes, enabling various tricks and patterns including corkscrews and swirls.
How Did ZipString Begin?
The concept originated when Stephen Fazio observed a physics teacher demonstrating a tabletop string-launching device. This inspiration led Fazio to collaborate with Austin Hillam and Hillam’s father Mark to develop a handheld version. Their initial development took place in the Hillam family basement in Johns Creek, Georgia, where they created multiple iterations before finalizing the design.
What Happened on Shark Tank?
During their Season 14 appearance, Fazio and Hillam sought $100,000 for 10% equity. Their presentation impressed the Sharks, particularly Robert Herjavec, who enjoyed testing the product. After negotiations, they secured a joint deal with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary for $100,000 in exchange for 20% equity.
How Has the Business Grown?
Following their viral success and Shark Tank appearance, ZipString has maintained steady growth. The company continues production from their original Georgia location, offering their product in five distinct colors: Bodacious Blue, Rock’It Red, Vivacious Violet, Luscious Lime, and Aesthetic Aqua. Their social media presence has expanded significantly, with increasing followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube platforms.
What Are the Current Market Results?
The product maintains a 3.9-star rating on Amazon, with customer feedback ranging from enthusiastic praise to constructive criticism. Some users report extended entertainment value, while others note concerns about string tangling and heat generation during extended use. The company has expanded its market reach through various distribution channels and continues development on new versions.
What’s Next for ZipString?
The company is currently developing next-generation versions of their product, though specific details remain private. Their business model focuses on maintaining quality control while expanding production capacity to meet growing demand. The team continues to operate from their original location while planning for eventual expansion.
Latest Developments
ZipString has recently introduced improved string materials and enhanced durability features based on customer feedback. The company maintains an active social media presence, regularly sharing new trick tutorials and user-generated content. Their educational outreach includes partnerships with science teachers who use the product to demonstrate physics principles in classrooms.
This comprehensive overview reflects verified information from available sources, presenting ZipString’s journey from inception through current operations. The company represents an example of how viral social media success combined with strategic business development can transform a physics demonstration into a global toy phenomenon.
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FAQs
Is ZipString Still In Business?
ZipString actively operates its business in 2024 from their original Johns Creek, Georgia facility, continuing to manufacture and ship their $29.99 physics-based toy to over 50 countries, while developing new product versions and maintaining an active social media presence across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube platforms.
How Much Has ZipString Made?
While exact revenue figures remain private, ZipString’s initial sales included 10,000 units at $25 each during their early launch phase, and the company has since expanded their pricing to $29.99 per unit, with additional revenue streams from $5.99 string pack sales, though specific current sales volumes are not publicly disclosed.
