Next, Marcus found himself at Skullduggery talking to owners, and brothers, Steve and Peter Koehl. The California-based company produces a mixture of toys, kits and fossil replicas. In the first few minutes of the episode, Marcus learns why the Skullduggery had $1.6 million in sales, but couldn’t turn a profit. A major issue is that replica skulls only account for 10% of sales, yet they receive the most attention. The name “Skullduggery” shows just how much priority is placed on the replicas. Another large issue with Skullduggery is that the toys aren’t as fun as Steve and Peter belief. Marcus even invites children to play with the toys to test how fun the toys really are. In the episode, parents and children admit that the toys can be a little confusing, to which one owner replies, “Can you read?” These complicated toys also have low margins, a major red flag for Marcus. To make matters worse, the process of making the toys and replicas is inefficient as the sculptor is not local. However, Marcus sees potential in Skullduggery and presents them with an offer. Owners Steve and Peter argue with Marcus and storm off into a room to discuss. Marcus, Steve and Peter are able to agree on $1.1 million to clear the debt for 30% of the company. Soon, Marcus buys them a 3D printer so the employees can see their creations before the sculptor makes and sends them. The office space was also renovated to allow for collaboration in designing toys; the space became more open and fun. Marcus arranges for a meeting with a top marketing executive at NASCAR, and is quickly embarrassed by the behavior of Skullduggery owners. These fixes were short lasted as the owners’ father learns about the deal and gets angry at Marcus, prompting him to leave the deal behind.
Update
Marcus still remains separate from Skullduggery. Skullduggery remains in business without the help of Marcus, and Marcus was able to return the printer for $240,000.