Flat-panel TV maker Vizio seemed to come out of nowhere to take on big players like Sony, Samsung, and Sharp. Founder William Wang’s experience selling screens to Gateway Computers gave him a step up in leading the company to success. With only 85 corporate employees, Vizio’s strategy has been to sell their TVs primarily through wholesale club stores like Costco. Wang also strategized that although people may purchase an expensive set for their living room, they would likely buy cheaper models for other rooms. However they are building out their line to include higher end models. Recent sales figures place Vizio at the top North American flat-panel sellers. They’ve added Sears and Circuit City to their retailers.