Shark Tank India Season 3: How retired Special Force soldier-turned-entrepreneur's stylish entry left Sharks in awe

Shark Tank India Season 3: The third season of Shark Tank India witnessed an unprecedented entry when armed soldiers stormed the set, setting a vibe of tension among judges. However, amidst the dramatic entrance, a retired Special Force soldier, Anil Malik, stepped onto the stage with a startup, Spec Ops. This startup aims to revolutionise soldier apparel, catering specifically to the needs of army personnel.

From the Battlefield to Entrepreneurship

Anil Malik, a veteran who served in crucial military operations such as Operation Parakram, Operation Rakshak, and Operation Vijay (Kargil), brings a wealth of experience to the table. His stint with the US Special Forces in 2002 opened his eyes to the importance of specialised clothing and tools in enhancing soldiers' efficiency. Inspired by his observations, Anil embarked on the journey of Spec Ops.

Spec Ops's Mission

Spec Ops is on a mission to design products tailored for military operations, ensuring optimal performance and comfort for soldiers. The company's flagship product offers Lycra fabric, providing unparalleled stretchability, along with strategically placed pockets for easy carriage of essentials. With a vision to serve over 16 lakh army personnel, Spec Ops stands as a pioneer in its domain.

Directly Serving Individual Soldiers

Anil emphasises that Spec Ops caters directly to individual soldiers rather than government procurement channels. Through dealerships and army canteens, the company ensures that soldiers have access to specialised gear tailored to their requirements, bridging the gap between demand and supply.

Spec Ops' Growth Trajectory

With a diverse range of over 300 products and a market worth of Rs 1800 crore, Spec Ops has carved a niche in the apparel industry. While initially, consumers sought affordability, there's been a paradigm shift towards quality products—a gap that Spec Ops is adeptly filling. Anil's vision extends beyond just serving soldiers; he aims to establish Spec Ops as a leading brand accessible to all.

Deal

Despite being bootstrapped, Spec Ops offers profitability, with a projected revenue of Rs 8 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24. The company's best-selling cargo products contribute significantly to its revenue, reflecting the market's demand for specialised military apparel. Anil's strategic pitch on Shark Tank garnered a valuation of Rs 20 crore, with investors Aman Gupta and Amit Jain.