Companies that nearly disappeared before becoming famous often had moments when failure seemed inevitable. Some ran out of money, others struggled with disastrous product launches, and several were only days away from shutting their doors for good.
Today, they’re recognized around the world, but their success was never guaranteed. These companies prove that one bold decision, a change in strategy, or simply refusing to give up can completely rewrite a business’s future.
1. LEGO
By 2003, LEGO was reportedly losing close to $1 million a day after years of overexpansion. Simplifying its product line and focusing on blockbuster partnerships helped save the company.
2. Crocs
The colorful foam clogs exploded in popularity before sales collapsed during the 2008 recession. Many believed the brand was finished, but collaborations with celebrities and limited-edition releases made Crocs fashionable again.
3. Marvel
Marvel filed for bankruptcy in 1996 after comic book sales plummeted. Creating Marvel Studios and producing its own films transformed the company into an entertainment giant.
4. Burberry
By the late 1990s, Burberry had lost much of its luxury reputation due to overexposure and counterfeit products. A complete brand overhaul restored its status as a premium fashion house.
5. Airbnb
When investors repeatedly turned them down, Airbnb’s founders famously sold limited-edition cereal boxes during the 2008 election to raise enough money to keep the company alive.
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6. Converse
After decades of success, Converse filed for bankruptcy in 2001. Nike purchased the struggling brand in 2003 and turned Chuck Taylors into a timeless fashion staple once again.
7. Fujifilm
As digital cameras replaced film, Fujifilm reinvented itself instead of disappearing. The company expanded into healthcare, cosmetics, and advanced materials while preserving its photography business.
8. Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s admitted in a national advertising campaign that customers disliked its pizza. The company completely redesigned its recipes, and the honest approach became one of the most successful brand turnarounds ever.
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9. Harley-Davidson
Cheap foreign competition nearly drove Harley-Davidson out of business during the 1980s. Improved manufacturing and stronger branding helped restore the company’s reputation.
10. Best Buy
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As online shopping grew, many analysts predicted Best Buy would become another retail casualty. Instead, the company reinvented its stores and embraced omnichannel shopping.
11. FedEx
Facing severe financial problems, founder Frederick Smith reportedly used the company’s last available funds during a weekend trip to Las Vegas, winning enough money to temporarily keep the business operating.
12. Polaroid
Digital photography nearly destroyed Polaroid’s business. Years later, nostalgia and renewed interest in instant photography helped revive the iconic brand.
13. Lamborghini
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Financial troubles forced Lamborghini through multiple ownership changes before Audi acquired the company and transformed it into one of the world’s leading supercar manufacturers.
14. Aston Martin
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The legendary British automaker declared bankruptcy multiple times throughout its history before finally achieving long-term stability under new ownership.
15. Nintendo
Long before becoming a gaming giant, Nintendo survived dramatic changes by evolving from a playing card company into one of the world’s most influential entertainment brands.
16. Airstream
The famous aluminum travel trailer manufacturer struggled during changing travel trends before experiencing a major revival thanks to renewed interest in road trips and vintage camping.
17. Western Union
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Once the world’s largest telegraph company, Western Union struggled as communication technology evolved. It reinvented itself by focusing on international money transfers.
18. Apple
In 1997, Apple was just months away from running out of cash. Steve Jobs returned, Microsoft invested $150 million, and a series of groundbreaking products completely transformed the company’s future.
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