I've been looking lately for businesses that are "under the radar" -- ones that not too many competitors are interested in, and therefore offer their owners some protection and better margins. Well, I found one that's literally under the radar: Stealth Concealment Solutions, based in North Charleston, S.C., Stealth creates concealments for wireless cell phone antennas across the United States. From flag poles and cacti to church steeples and clock towers, Stealth works with wireless companies to disguise cell phone towers in something free-standing (like a tree) or to an existing structure (like a chimney). The growth of the wireless industry has lead to the need for more antennas, but most consumers don't want to see the antenna. Concealing them makes it blend in with its surroundings.
Stealth created the first wireless concealment and founded the wireless concealment industry in 1992. CEO Sean McLernon gave some insight into the business and advice for under-the-radar entrepreneurial success.
How did you get into this business?
This business grew as the demand for mobile phone service grew. We've always had a bent toward telecommunications, but it was not on the wireless side. When we saw that more and more antennas were going to be required, we made a bet that they were sometimes going to need to be concealed. We bet right.
What does the business looks like now?
In the last 10 years, Stealth has doubled in size as we serve every wireless carrier in the United States. With sales and revenue rising into the double digits and eight-figures, Stealth continues to lead the concealment pack.
What's the competition like in your segment? What do you do that's different?
The competition is a fractured set of companies that come and go, and only a small handful of players make it past the 10-year mark. Stealth has been in the concealment business almost twice as long as the nearest competitor. Concealment is all we do. Our bi-coastal operation and nationwide sales force gives us a reach no one can match. We can be anywhere we need to be in 24 hours and, in some cases, the same day.
What are some examples of interesting projects you've done?
We participated in the replacement of 100-year-old historical sites, as well as brand new 150-foot clock towers. We've completed over 5,000 custom projects.
What advice would you give to entrepreneurs starting a business today?
- Make sure you're adequately funded. An idea without money behind it is a hobby.
- Believe in your vision and your ability to make it real. Persist.
- If you can avoid it, don't have partners.
- When success comes, don't get distracted by all the other opportunities that will inevitably pop up. Stay focused.