“Shark Tank,” now in its impressive 15th season, continues to captivate viewers with its unique blend of high-stakes business and captivating entrepreneurship. This groundbreaking show brings ambitious inventors and entrepreneurs into the limelight, providing them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pitch their innovative products to the “Sharks” – a panel of seasoned investors and business moguls. The goal? To secure a potentially life-changing investment.
Despite the pressure-cooker environment, only some participants clinch a deal. However, for those who do, the journey often leads to monumental success, propelled by strategic alliances and clever business maneuvers courtesy of the Sharks’ expertise.
The following compilation showcases some of the most beloved and successful products to emerge from Shark Tank. These items aren’t just perfect for ardent fans of the show; they also serve as thoughtful gifts for those yet to experience the thrill of Shark Tank. From practical inventions to quirky innovations, these products embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and the thrill of turning a vision into reality.
Here is a countdown of some of the most successful products that got their start in “Shark Tank” that you can actually buy now.
1. Bombas Socks
Elevate your active lifestyle with Bombas Hex Tec socks, specifically engineered for running and exercise. Lightweight and built for movement, they boast Hex Tec construction, ensuring breathability and effective moisture-wicking. These socks are crafted from a specialized poly/cotton blend and balance durability and comfort. Designed with strategic zone cushioning and enhanced airflow ventilation, they provide superior comfort and support, enabling you to move with grace and speed effortlessly.
Founding Story:
In a world where athletic socks had remained unchanged for decades, two visionaries, David and Randy, embarked on an inspiring journey with Bombas, a company born out of a passion to revolutionize sock wear. After two years of meticulous research and development, they created socks that are superior in comfort and design and infused with a heartfelt mission. For every pair sold, another was donated to homeless shelters, addressing the most requested clothing item.Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2013
- Founders: Randy Goldberg and David Heath
- Mission: To donate one pair of socks for every pair purchased, addressing the high demand for socks in homeless shelters.
- Products: Initially focused on socks, expanding into other apparel over time.
Founders of the Company:
- Randy Goldberg and David Heath
- Background: Met while working at a media company in 2007, shared interest in entrepreneurship and social impact.
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Initial Funding: Raised nearly $145,000 through Indiegogo in 2013, followed by $1 million seed funding from friends and family.
- Shark Tank Investment: Secured a deal with Daymond John for $200,000 in exchange for 17.5% equity in 2014.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- 2018 Revenue: Exceeded $100 million.
- Post-Shark Tank Growth: Experienced rapid growth and became Shark Tank’s most successful franchise with $1 billion in lifetime revenue.
- Donations: Surpassed 100 million essential apparel items donated to people experiencing homelessness.
2. Larq
The LARQ Bottle offers a revolutionary hydration experience with its advanced UV-C LED technology, sanitizing water and eliminating harmful bacteria and viruses in 60 seconds. Self-cleaning every two hours ensures fresh, odor-free water. This double-wall, vacuum-insulated stainless steel bottle keeps drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12, with a safety cap to prevent UV-C exposure. BPA and plastic-free requires no filters, providing a healthier drinking experience. With up to a month’s charge and proven effectiveness against contaminants like E. coli, the LARQ Bottle, available in original and lightweight Movement versions, is a more innovative way to stay hydrated.
Founding Story:
The genesis of Lark came from a common yet overlooked problem: the unpleasant odor from reusable water bottles. Justin noticed that these bottles often contained more bacteria than dog bowls or toilet seats, leading to their foul smell. This discovery led him to understand why people often opt for single-use plastic bottles, despite their environmental impact.Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2018
- Founder: Justin Wang, co-founded with Douglas Collins
- Mission: To innovate in the water bottle industry, focusing on health, safety, and sustainability.
- Products: Self-cleaning water bottles using UV-C LED technology and the Larq Pitcher with advanced filtration and UV-C LED technology.
- Market Position: Competing with stylish water bottle brands like S'well and filtration brands like Brita.
Founders of the Company:
- Justin Wang: Former president at Foreo (Swedish beauty-tech brand) and investor with L Capital.
- Douglas Collins: An expert in LED and semiconductor space, holding a Ph.D. in Physics from Caltech.
Capital and Valuation:
- Shark Tank Appearance: Season 12 asked for $500,000 for a 1% stake, resulting in the highest valuation in the show’s history.
- Outcome: Secured $1 million for a 4% stake from Lori Greiner and Kevin O'Leary.
- Series A Funding: Raised $11 million in September 2020 from Seventure and DCM.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Sales Figures: $5.5 million in the first year, $9 million in the second, $14 million in the third, and projecting nearly $20 million in the current year.
- Projected Revenue: With the launch of the Larq Pitcher, revenue is expected to reach $30 million in 2022.
- Retail Presence: Products are available in 15 retailers, including Nordstrom, Revolve, and MOMA, with direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales accounting for 70% of total sales.
Product Innovation and Impact:
- Technology: Proprietary technology utilizing UV-C light to neutralize harmful bacteria in water bottles.
- Sustainability Focus: Emphasis on reducing single-use plastic bottles with phthalate and BPA-free products.
- Pitcher Technology: Advanced two-stage filtration system in the Larq Pitcher, capable of removing a wide range of contaminants.
3. Lovepop
Delight your loved one with the enchanting 5“ x 7” Lovepop “I Lava You” Pop-Up Card featuring a 3D volcano couple that comes to life when opened. The cover art charmingly depicts two volcanoes on a heart-shaped island; inside, they form a heart with their smoke. Perfect for any occasion, this card offers a blank space for your message, making each greeting unique. Crafted with exceptional quality, Lovepop cards are laser-cut and hand-assembled from premium FSC-certified craft paper, showcasing the innovative blend of kirigami and engineering known as Slicegami.
Founding Story:
Wambi and John’s entrepreneurial journey began a decade ago in Boston, Massachusetts, where their shared studies in ship design, naval architecture, and marine engineering at college first united them.Their partnership reignited at Harvard Business School, leading them to synergize their expertise into a business venture. They innovatively applied their ship design skills to create Love Pop, a unique twist on the traditional greeting card, using 3D software to craft intricate, pop-up paper art. This venture was more than a business choice; it was a deep commitment. After graduation, despite hefty student loans, they invested everything into Love Pop after eschewing lucrative career paths.
Their dedication bore fruit in a product that stood out in the digital age - tangible, unique pop-up cards that offered a personal touch in a world of impersonal interactions.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2013
- Founders: Wombi Rose and John Wise
- Mission: To create unique, hand-crafted 3-D pop-up paper cards that foster personal, meaningful connections.
- Products: Specializes in intricate paper sculptures designed as greeting cards.
Founders of the Company:
- Wombi Rose and John Wise
- Background: Met at Webb Institute while training to become naval architects and marine engineers. They were inspired to start LovePop after a school project in Vietnam introduced them to the art of hand-crafted paper cards.
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Appearance: December 2015
- Investment Received: $300,000 from Kevin O'Leary
- Equity Given: 15% stake in the company
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Initial Sales: Sold $300,000 in cards before appearing on Shark Tank.
- Post-Shark Tank Sales: Increased to $1 million in the month following their appearance on the show and $18.7 million in 2017.
- Long-Term Goal: Ambitious target of selling 1 billion cards.
4. Scrub Daddy
Transform your cleaning routine with Scrub Daddy, featuring innovative temperature-controlled scrub technology. FlexTexture foam adjusts to water temperature, becoming firm in cold water for tough grime and soft in warm water for gentle cleaning. Safe on diverse surfaces like glass and stainless steel, it’s ideal for everything from dishes to cars. Durable and odor-resistant, this versatile scrubber easily cleans utensils, furniture, and more, adapting to all kinds of dirt and stains. Ergonomically designed, it fits comfortably in your hand, with a unique smiley face that reaches into tight spaces for effective scrubbing. Scrub Daddy offers a fun, efficient, and effective cleaning experience.
Founding Story:
His story began over 25 years ago, following college graduation. Despite his parents’ (both doctors) expectations, Aaron chose to start his own car-washing business, viewing himself as the CEO of his venture. It was here that his inventiveness first shone through. Frustrated with existing buffing pads, he experimented with urethane foam and patented a new one, marking his first serious foray into inventing.Aaron’s journey took a turn when he sold his car washing business to focus on producing these pads. However, constantly dealing with oil and grease led him to seek a solution for cleaning his hands. This quest led him to a German company that created a custom foam for him. By cutting this foam into a ridged circle with holes for cleaning fingers, the initial design of the Scrub Daddy, with its distinctive smiley face, inadvertently came to life.
In a twist of fate in 2008, Aaron sold his buffing pad business to 3M, excluding Scrub Daddy, which didn’t interest them. The sponges sat forgotten in a box labeled ’scrap' at the back of his factory for years. It wasn’t until 2011, prompted by his wife to clean lawn furniture, that Aaron rediscovered them. He found the sponge softened in warm water and hardened in cold, ideal for scratch-free cleaning. This accidental discovery led to the creation of the Scrub Daddy as we know it today.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2012
- Founder: Aaron Krause
- Mission: To provide innovative cleaning solutions through a unique sponge product, combining functionality with design.
- Products: Started with the Scrub Daddy sponge and has expanded to include a range of cleaning products such as scouring pads, erasers, mops, dish wands, microfiber towels, and soap dispensers.
Founders of the Company:
- Aaron Krause
- Background: Inventor and entrepreneur with a history of creating novel products, including a line of buffing and polishing pads. His journey with Scrub Daddy began with the reinvention of a sponge he had initially created for cleaning.
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Deal: In October 2012, Aaron Krause made a deal with Lori Greiner, receiving $200,000 for a 20% equity stake.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Early Success: Sold out of 42,000 sponges in under seven minutes on QVC the day after the Shark Tank episode aired.
- Retail Expansion: Entered retail stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond.
- 2017 Revenue: Surpassed $100 million, becoming the highest-revenue product in Shark Tank’s history.
- 2019 Lifetime Sales: Reached $209 million.
- 2022 Growth: Reported as a top 5 grossing company in Shark Tank history with more than $670 million in retail sales, 273 employees, 160 products, and availability in 257,000 retail locations.
5. Squatty Potty
Enhance your bathroom routine with the Squatty Potty, a doctor-endorsed solution featured on Shark Tank. This sturdy stool, supporting up to 350 pounds, promotes healthier bowel movements by encouraging a natural squatting position. Its anti-slip, easy-to-clean design fits well in small spaces, making it ideal for any bathroom. Aligning your body at a 35° angle helps reduce strain and time on the toilet. Compact and practical, the Squatty Potty measures 17.75“ W × 11.5”D × 7.63"H, offering a simple yet transformative addition to your daily wellness.
Founding Story:
Their journey began when Judy, [Bobby’s mother], faced challenges with constipation, and a doctor’s advice to squat for relief sparked an idea. In 2010, to help Judy, Bobby (her son) created the prototype, a simple stool to facilitate a squatting position during toilet use. This invention led to the birth of Squatty Potty in 2011.By 2013, they had started manufacturing the first plastic Squatty Potty, gaining recognition on the Howard Stern Show. Their Shark Tank pitch was more than a business proposition; it was a personal story of solving a common health problem with a simple, effective solution.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2012
- Founders: Bobby Edwards and his parents, Judy and Bill Edwards
- Mission: To create a bathroom stool that helps improve colon health by enabling a natural squatting position.
- Products: The Squatty Potty, a simple white plastic footstool designed to tuck under a toilet; the expanded product line includes a toilet plunger with a poo emoji and toilet deodorant sprays.
Founders of the Company:
- Bobby, Judy, and Bill Edwards
- Background: The idea originated from Judy’s personal bathroom struggles. With a mindset of making a “big splash” in business, Bobby saw the potential in creating a better solution.
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Deal: Received a $350,000 investment from Lori Greiner for an undisclosed equity stake.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Initial Sales: $17,000 in first-year sales in 2011.
- Post-Shark Tank Growth: Sold $1 million in product within 24 hours of the TV appearance; 2015 sales reached $19 million; 2017 sales nearly $33 million.
- Future Projection: Anticipated to hit $100 million in sales in the coming years.
6. Tipsy Elves
Stand out at your next Christmas party with Tipsy Elves’ Women’s Ugly Christmas Sweater, boasting unique, eye-catching designs. Crafted for comfort and style, these lightweight sweaters are tailored and perfect for festive celebrations and matching family outfits. Made with durable fabric, they promise to be a lasting addition to your holiday wardrobe. Tipsy Elves is dedicated to creating the world’s most outrageous apparel, making every occasion unforgettable.
Founding Story:
Tipsy Elves was born from a desire to reinvent the traditional, often musty and unattractive Christmas sweaters found in thrift stores. They aimed to create fun, witty, and high-quality Christmas sweaters that would appeal to the whole family and fit well.Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2011
- Founders: Evan Mendelsohn and Nick Morton
- Headquarters: Moved from Symphony Towers Downtown to Wells Fargo Plaza in the East Village, San Diego
- Business: Specializes in designing creative and memorable apparel, initially starting with ugly Christmas sweaters and expanding to various holidays and occasions
- Office Space: 7,500 square foot office on the 14th floor of the 24-story Wells Fargo Plaza building
- Company Culture: Focuses on a fun, vibrant work environment that reflects the brand’s spirit
Founders of the Company:
- Evan Mendelsohn and Nick Morton
- Background: Mendelsohn is a lawyer, and Morton is a dentist; both met at the University of California San Diego
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Investment: In 2013, received a $100,000 investment from Robert Herjavec for a 10% stake
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Sales Growth: From $1 million in the first year to $3 million after appearing on Shark Tank; sales reached $125 million by 2019
- Employee Count: 20
- Website: www.tipsyelves.com
- Notable: Robert Herjavec’s most lucrative Shark Tank deal to date
7. Cousins Maine Lobster
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Maine with Cousins Maine Lobster, a culinary venture that started as a humble food truck in 2012 and gained national acclaim on ABC’s Shark Tank. Their menu offers a delightful variety of lobster-centric fare, from classic Maine and Connecticut-style lobster rolls to innovative dishes like lobster grilled cheese and chowder. Founders Jim and Sabin have created a unique seafood experience rooted in family traditions and recipes. They serve comforting sides like clam chowder and lobster bisque alongside their signature lobster offerings. Cousins Maine Lobster provides top-notch catering for special events, bringing the essence of Maine’s seafood directly to your celebration.
Founding Story:
Sabin Lomack and Jim Tselikis, the dynamic duo behind Cousins Maine Lobster, made a captivating appearance on Shark Tank to showcase their unique business, which is deeply rooted in their childhood memories from Portland. Their upbringing, filled with scenes of huge pots of lobster boiling in the backyard, buttery ears of corn, and crowded picnic tables with kids delving into steaming hot lobster, served as a rich tapestry of authentic, familial culinary experiences.This nostalgic and flavorful backdrop of family gatherings became the cornerstone of Cousins Maine Lobster. Their vision was to innovatively bring the genuine Maine lobster experience to Southern California through a gourmet lobster shack on wheels.
This concept wasn’t just about serving food; it was about recreating their Maine roots’ warm, communal essence, offering lobsters freshly delivered from shore to door in record time. They aimed to affordably and efficiently introduce this cherished piece of their heritage to new regions, inviting others to partake in a culinary tradition that was a staple of their childhood.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2011
- Founders: Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac
- Business Model: Food truck, restaurant, and e-commerce business
- Products: Fresh and sustainable Maine lobster, lobster rolls, and other seafood dishes
- Unique Selling Point: Bringing Maine’s traditional seafood cuisine to various locations, with a focus on sustainability and consistency in food quality across franchises
- Headquarters: Originally based in Los Angeles, California
Founders of the Company:
- Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac
- Background: Cousins who grew up in Portland, Maine, and shared a love for Maine’s seafood
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Investment: In 2012, received $55,000 from Barbara Corcoran for a 15% equity stake
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Initial Success: Made $150,000 in sales just two months after opening
- Post-Shark Tank Growth: Expanded to 20 food trucks in 13 locations and a restaurant in Los Angeles by 2016, with $20 million in sales
- Current Status: Over 50 food trucks and brick-and-mortar restaurants across 45 cities, with over $50 million in annual sales as of 2021
- Franchise Expansion: International expansion into Taiwan and continual growth in the U.S. market
- Additional Ventures: Appeared on “Food Truck Rehab” on The Food Network in 2021
8. The Comfy
Discover The Comfy Original, the patented wearable blanket that sparked a global craze, as featured on Shark Tank and backed by Barbara Corcoran. Verified for authenticity by Amazon’s Transparency, it promises the ultimate in comfort and style. The Comfy combines luxurious fleece microfiber and fluffy sherpa for supreme warmth, perfect for lounging, working, or outdoor activities. Inspired by a men’s 5XL, its oversized design features a plush hood, roomy pocket, and spacious sleeves, offering a cloud-like embrace. Ideal for any occasion, from Mother’s Day to birthdays, it’s a versatile gift that brings joy and coziness. Choose your color and give the gift of comfort with The Comfy Original.
Founding Story:
The Comfy was inspired by a simple yet profound moment on a chilly day in Arizona. Michael, one of the co-founders, saw his nephew cozily wrapped in a sherpa blanket, with his arms and knees tucked into an old sweatshirt. This sight sparked an “AH HA” moment: the idea of an oversized, warm garment that doubles as a blanket.Recognizing the absence of such a product in the market, Michael and Brian began brainstorming to bring the Comfy to life. Their creation is a unique blend of a blanket and a sweatshirt designed for ultimate warmth and convenience. The Comfy is perfect for those cold mornings or evenings when the desire for comfort and coziness is paramount. Featuring a soft microfiber exterior, a luxurious sherpa interior, a large pocket, and an oversized hood that can double as a pillow, it’s practical for both indoor and outdoor use.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2017
- Founders: Brothers Michael and Brian Speciale
- Business Model: Retail and e-commerce of The Comfy, a wearable blanket-hoodie hybrid
- Products: The Comfy, snuggly, oversized hoodie made with a microfiber exterior and sherpa-lined interior, along with newer designs featuring characters and college logos
- Unique Selling Point: Innovative, cozy, and versatile wearable blanket gaining quick popularity
Founders of the Company:
- Michael and Brian Speciale
- Background: I came up with the idea for The Comfy based on a personal need for comfort and warmth
Total Capital Received and Raised by the Sharks:
- Shark Tank Investment: In 2017, received $50,000 from Barbara Corcoran for a 30% equity stake
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Early Growth: Rapidly grew to become one of Shark Tank’s most successful brands, selling millions through retailers like Amazon and Target
- Revenue Peak: Reached $20 million in revenues by the end of 2018, with sales hitting $43 million and $65 million in 2019 and 2020, respectively
- Challenges: Faced financial difficulties and leadership conflicts in 2021, leading to significant debt and a reduction in staff
- Recent Developments: Michael Speciale bought out both Corcoran and his brother Brian in June and is now trying to rejuvenate the brand and pay off debts
9. Bala Bangles
Enhance your workouts with Bala Bangles, the versatile accessory for wrists and ankles. They’re designed to add gentle yet effective resistance, perfect for yoga, Pilates, boxing, and more. Crafted from high-quality steel and soft silicone, with adjustable fasteners for a perfect fit, these bangles ensure comfort and durability. The set includes two 1 LB bangles and a color-matched carrying case, each measuring 13“ x 3” x ½,” combining convenience with style for your fitness routine.
Founding Story:
The idea for Bala Bangles was born from a blend of experience and inspiration. With a background in advertising, Natalie and her then-boyfriend Max, both feeling burnt out, embarked on a year-long journey across Asia. While practicing yoga in Indonesia, they yearned for a more challenging class and considered adding resistance. This led them to brainstorm a redesign of the traditional wrist and ankle weights.Having undergone yoga teacher training at CorePower, Natalie was already familiar with combining yoga with weight training. They envisioned a more functional and fashionable version of weights, leading to the sketching of Bala Bangles. The idea was to create a product that enhances people’s workout experiences, making them practical and stylish.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2018
- Founders: Natalie Holloway and Maximilian Kislevitz
- Mission: To integrate fashion and function in fitness accessories.
- Products: Bala Bangles, along with a range of fitness accessories like the Bala Bar, Power Ring, and jump ropes.
- Market Position: Fashion-forward fitness accessories appealing to fitness enthusiasts and the style-conscious.
Founders of the Company:
- Natalie Holloway and Maximilian Kislevitz
- Background: Both have advertising backgrounds; they conceptualized Bala Bangles during a sabbatical in Asia.
Capital and Valuation:
- Shark Tank Appearance: Secured a $900,000 investment from Mark Cuban and Maria Sharapova for 30% of the company.
- Kickstarter Campaign: Raised $40,000, supplemented with $10,000 personal savings.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Sales Figures: Achieved $2 million in sales in 2019, growing to $20 million by the end of 2020.
- Retail Presence: Products are available in over 500 retailers, including Saks, Bloomingdales, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and online platforms like Carbon 38.
- Projected Sales for 2021: Targeting $40 million.
Product Innovation and Impact:
- Design and Material: Stylish, made of recycled stainless steel wrapped in soft silicone, suitable for low-impact activities.
- Market Impact: Identified as a trendsetter in fitness accessories, featured in major outlets and used by celebrities.
- Challenges: Faced issues with counterfeits on platforms like Amazon.
10. The Woobles
Dive into festive crafting with The Woobles’ Winter Wonderland bundle, featuring adorable crochet characters like Lola Loca the Polar Bear and Ralph the Reindeer. Designed for beginners and suitable for ages 12+, this kit makes learning to crochet fun and easy, with over 250,000 people already enjoying the experience. Each beginner-friendly kit includes a crochet hook and pre-started setup, complete with step-by-step video tutorials, accommodating right- and left-handed crafters. Add a personal touch to your holiday decor with these charming, 4.5-inch tall handmade Woobles, perfect for bringing the festive spirit to life.
Founding Story:
Despite initial struggles and learning hurdles, Justine’s foray into crocheting a penguin plushie for a friend inspired the creation of The Woobles. This experience led to the development of user-friendly crochet kits designed to make learning this craft accessible and enjoyable for beginners. Beyond crafting, The Woobles kits focus on building confidence and the joy of learning new skills at any age.Combining Justine’s background as a UX designer for Google Classroom and Adrian’s experience as a former Wall Street director, they brought unique insights to their venture. Leaving their high-paying jobs, they embarked on this journey with The Woobles, driven by a passion to help others rediscover the joy of learning and personal growth through crochet.
Description of the Company:
- Launch Year: 2020
- Founders: Justine Tiu and Adrian Zhang
- Mission: Make crocheting accessible and enjoyable for beginners through user-friendly crochet kits.
- Products: Crochet training kits featuring amigurumi (cute creatures) with all necessary materials and instructions.
- Unique Selling Point: Offering a fun and accessible introduction to crocheting with appealing designs and comprehensive kits.
Founders of the Company:
- Justine Tiu: Prior experience as a designer at Google; inspired to start The Woobles to relieve stress and share the joy of crocheting.
- Adrian Zhang is a co-founder and business partner working alongside Justine Tiu to grow the company.
Capital and Valuation:
- Shark Tank Appearance: Featured in an episode aired in October, it initially appeared to secure a deal.
- Investment Outcome: Despite a handshake deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner for $450,000 in exchange for a 6% equity stake, the investment ultimately did not materialize.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Sales Achievement: Generated over $5 million in lifetime sales since its inception.
- Expansion: Grew from an Etsy store to a dedicated e-commerce platform, managing operations from multiple warehouses.
- Product Development and Partnerships: Released a book and expanded through partnerships, including character licensing and exclusive kits on Walmart.com.
Product Innovation and Impact:
- Market Influence: Part of the growing interest in crafting and DIY, particularly amigurumi crochet toys.
- Design Focus: User-friendly kits for beginners featuring the unique “Easy Peasy Yarn” to simplify learning.
- Retail Presence: With expanding retail partnerships available on various platforms, including Amazon.
11. Boarderie
Boarderie brings you an array of exquisite charcuterie boards, ready to ship nationwide for any occasion. From classic assortments to custom birthday and engagement options, each board, including the Oprah-endorsed Baked Brie, is handcrafted and arrives pre-assembled for instant enjoyment. Highly rated and easy to order, Boarderie combines gourmet quality with convenience, perfect for effortless entertaining.
Founding Story:
Rachel and Erin from West Palm Beach, Florida, brought their entrepreneurial spirit to Shark Tank with Borda, their inventive venture in the edible gifting industry. Their journey began amid the pandemic when Erin’s flourishing catering business faced an abrupt halt. Seeking to pivot, Erin started delivering locally crafted cheese and charcuterie boards, where he initially connected with Rachel, one of his customers.Recognizing the potential in these beautifully crafted boards and Erin’s entrepreneurial drive, Rachel joined forces with him. Together, they envisioned Borda - pre-assembled, high-quality cheese and charcuterie boards delivered nationwide, aiming to simplify and elevate the gifting experience.
They invested $750,000 and built a specialized production facility to maintain quality and freshness at scale. Borda was their response to the changing times - a venture that transformed a period of challenge into an opportunity for innovation and growth in the online gifting space.
Description of the Company:
- Business Name: Boarderie
- Nature of Business: Delivers prearranged artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards nationwide.
- Julie Larson and Aaron Menitoff later partnered with Rachel Solomon and Angel Jerez.
- Origin: Evolved from a gourmet catering company in Palm Beach, Florida.
- Unique Selling Point: First, create prearranged cheese and charcuterie boards that can be shipped overnight across the United States.
Founders of the Company:
- Julie Larson and Aaron Menitoff: They have extensive experience in the hospitality business, including catering for high-profile clients.
- Rachel Solomon: Joined as a co-CEO after being impressed with Boarderie’s concept.
- Angel Jerez: Partnered with the team as the business expanded.
Capital and Valuation:
- Shark Tank Appearance: Featured on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” where they negotiated a deal with Lori Greiner.
- Investment Details: Secured $300,000 from Lori Greiner for 9% equity.
Revenue and Business Growth:
- Growth Rate: Experienced 1000% growth in one year, reaching $70 million in revenue.
- Expansion: Rapid expansion with increased production capabilities and a large team of 70 employees.
Product Innovation and Impact:
- Community Involvement: Employs adults with developmental disabilities and engages in community service and food drives.
- Market Influence: Gained significant attention after appearing on “Shark Tank” and being listed in Oprah’s Favorite Things.
- Product Range: Offers various boards, including limited-time products and options for corporate gifting with customizable engravings.
Market Position and Strategy:
- Target Market: Broad audience from corporate events to family gatherings, focusing on Millennials.
- Marketing Success: Boosted by Oprah’s endorsement and positive reviews, along with a solid online presence.
- Future Plans: Continues to expand its product range and reach, maintaining community engagement and innovative offerings.
