Additional Coverage:
- ‘Shark Tank’ judge Mark Cuban tells contestants ‘Walmart needs you’ as they get a $500,000 deal (marketrealist.com)
Local Entrepreneurs Brew Up “Sweet” Success, Land Major “Shark Tank” Deal
In a recent episode of “Shark Tank,” local entrepreneurs Darien Craig and Brandon Echols, co-founders of ‘Y’all Sweet Tea,’ didn’t just get a deal – they had the Sharks practically begging for a piece of their booming business. Their innovative approach to a classic beverage, combined with stellar sales figures, led to a multi-Shark $500,000 deal from investors Lori Greiner and Rashaun Williams.
The dynamic duo entered the tank seeking half a million dollars for just 5% equity, confidently proclaiming their product offered the “best sweet tea.” Their pitch began with a relatable story: a friendly debate over whose mother made the superior sweet tea, which ultimately sparked the idea to create a traditional recipe infused with a modern, Gen Z appeal. They emphasized their brand’s ability to connect with a younger audience through contemporary social media marketing.
Mama Sue, one of the original recipe creators, even made an appearance to share insights into the product. The Sharks were clearly impressed with the taste of the tea, which comes in convenient filter packs, each capable of brewing a full gallon.
Beyond the delicious flavors like mango and lemon, it was the numbers that truly captivated the investors. Craig and Echols revealed that Y’all Sweet Tea had already surpassed $10.3 million in sales from 2021 up to the time of filming, with projections exceeding $5 million for 2025.
Their product was already stocked in approximately 600 grocery stores across the Southeastern U.S., and they were actively in discussions with retail giant Walmart. The sheer scale of their success prompted investor Mark Cuban to declare, “Walmart needs you, you don’t need Walmart!”
The impressive presentation ignited a bidding war among the Sharks. Guest investor Rashaun Williams, a venture capitalist and minority owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, was the first to offer $500,000 for 10% equity. While Mark Cuban endorsed Williams’ suitability for the business, he ultimately stepped out, as did Barbara Corcoran.
Kevin O’Leary, known as “Mr. Wonderful,” then threw his hat into the ring, offering $500,000 for a combined 20% stake with Williams.
Sensing an opportunity, Lori Greiner, the “Queen of QVC,” joined forces with Williams, offering the same half-million for a more appealing 15% combined stake. O’Leary quickly matched Greiner’s 15% offer, but in the end, Craig and Echols accepted the powerful partnership of Williams and Greiner.
Since their appearance on the show, Y’all Sweet Tea has continued its impressive growth. The company remains in business and has even expanded its product line to include seasonings and sauces, proving that their entrepreneurial spirit extends far beyond just sweet tea.