Watch The Profit

The Profit is a reality TV show that airs on CNBC and is hosted by businessman Marcus Lemonis. The premise of the show is that Lemonis invests his own money into struggling small businesses in order to save them from failure and make them profitable. In each episode, Lemonis visits a different small business that is failing for one reason or another. He analyzes each business by looking at their sales, marketing, operations, finances, and management. Lemonis then makes an offer to invest his own money into the business in exchange for an ownership stake. His goal is to turn around the business by fixing its problems and getting it on the path to success.

Lemonis typically offers the business owners advice, expertise, and capital, but in return asks for a percentage of the business and a degree of control and ownership. This allows him to make the changes needed to improve the business. The types of struggling businesses featured on the show vary widely - from restaurants and retail stores to manufacturing companies and service providers.

A typical episode shows Lemonis observing the staff and operations of the business, examining their books and records, and asking tough questions of the owners. He points out problems with the product, service, marketing, customer service, inventory control, or staffing issues. He then works with the owners to address these issues directly, often providing capital to improve facilities, technology, hire new staff, upgrade equipment, or invest in better inventory.

Lemonis is shown negotiating with the owners over the percentage of the company he requires for his investment. They have difficult conversations about valuations, salaries, and what level of control Lemonis will have in management decisions. Intense disputes often occur before a deal is struck.

Once an agreement is made, Lemonis gets to work immediately implementing changes to turn the business around. This may involve changing the product, rebranding, altering staff roles, streamlining operations, upgrading facilities, or reaching out to new markets. Employee and customer reactions to the changes are featured.

The Profit offers viewers lessons in running a successful business. Lemonis emphasizes the importance of attention to detail, listening to customers, managing cash flow, controlling inventory, and creating company culture. He demonstrates tough love and accountability in getting lackadaisical owners to step up and improve their business practices.

At the end of each episode, updates are provided on the impact his investment and guidance had on the business. Most episodes conclude with the featured business showing increased sales, profits, and optimism for their future success. The Profit offers an inside look at the ups and downs of running a small business in America, while showcasing the transformative power of smart capital and expertise.

The Profit is a series that ran for 8 seasons (139 episodes) between July 30, 2013 and on CNBC