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eMacomb - Made in Macomb, Summer 2011
Yakel Enterprises/FAVI Entertainment
Local consumer electronics company launches hot product; FAVI Entertainment joins the “on-the-go” market with a pocket-size projector.
What if a device the size of a cell phone were all you needed to project and view movies, photos, video games or business presentations on a big screen? Sterling Heights-based FAVI Entertainment’s new Mini Pocket Projector is the newest product to join the “on-the-go” market and is redefining the projection experience.
Using the latest in digital light processing technology, this lightweight, easy-to-use and affordable device has made the FAVI mini-projector the hottest “must have” tech device of the summer. Its high-quality LED bulb lasts more than 20,000 hours and makes it possible to project images on nearly any surface imaginable.
The projector connects easily to a lap top, USB drive, memory card or cell phone. It can be plugged into a wall outlet or operated by an internal battery (think camping!). Not currently available in retail stores, the mini-projector is available at Amazon.com, RetailAce.com, SearsMarketPlace.com or the company website. According to a review on Amazon, “It is fun and easy to use!! If someone as technologically ignorant as I can master it, practically anyone can.”
Company founder and CEO is Jeremy Yakel, a Macomb County native and graduate of Utica High School. He graduated from Michigan State University with honors and promptly took a corporate job outside of the state. But Yakel longed to return to Michigan.
While at MSU, Yakel dabbled with eBay sales as a means to supporting himself. Somewhat surprised by how successful he was, he learned that he had a natural propensity for online retailing. He returned home with an idea and founded Yakel Enterprises in 2007 out of his parent’s garage. Working with manufacturers from around the world, Yakel began to sell flat screen televisions under the FAVI name. When ABC’s “The View” featured his pink TV on the air, sales soared to nearly a half million dollars in the first year.
Yakel recently moved for a third time into a Sterling Heights location where he and seven employees manage online orders and offer top-notch customer service. Revenues in 2010 exceeded $2.5 million.
FAVI products have been featured on national television programs such as "The View."