What is The Yard and what did they seek on Shark Tank Season 11? The Yard is a specialty milkshake bar that appeared on Shark Tank Season 11. The founders, Logan and Chelsea Green, were seeking $400,000 in exchange for a 10% stake in their company. They ultimately secured a deal with Mark Cuban for $400,000 for 22% equity.
Summary
- The Yard is a specialty milkshake bar known for its over-the-top “freak shakes.”
- Founders Logan and Chelsea Green appeared on Shark Tank Season 11 seeking $400,000 for 10% equity.
- They secured a deal with Mark Cuban for $400,000 for 22%.
- The Yard has significantly expanded its franchise operations since appearing on the show.
- They are successful due to unique, photogenic milkshakes and strong branding.
The Yard Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 11
Milkshakes have always been a beloved treat, but in recent years, they’ve undergone a dramatic transformation.
Enter the “freak shake” – a monstrous, over-the-top creation piled high with cookies, cakes, candies, and more.
These Instagram-worthy concoctions have taken the dessert world by storm, captivating sweet tooths and social media feeds alike.
The Yard’s Unique Approach
The Yard Milkshake Bar, founded by Logan and Chelsea Green, recognized the potential of this trend and took it to the next level.
They didn’t just create freak shakes; they crafted an experience. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Yard quickly established itself as a leader in the booming world of decadent desserts.
Entering the Tank: Season 11
In 2019, Logan and Chelsea took a bold step to expand their growing business. They bravely entered the Shark Tank, seeking an investment to propel The Yard to new heights.
Their appearance on Season 11, Episode 7, showcased their passion, their product, and their potential, ultimately catching the eye of billionaire investor Mark Cuban.
The Yard’s Shark Tank Pitch
1. The Pitch
| Entrepreneurs | Logan & Chelsea Green |
|---|---|
| Business | The Yard Milkshake Bar |
| Ask | $400,000 for 10% equity |
| Deal | $400,000 for 22% equity |
| Sharks | Mark Cuban |
| Season | Season 11 |
| Original Air Date | November 10, 2019 |
| Website | The Yard Milkshake Bar |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Accepted |
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2. The Founders: Logan and Chelsea Green
Logan and Chelsea Green, a husband-and-wife team, presented a compelling story of entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for creating extraordinary milkshakes.
Their genuine enthusiasm and clear vision for The Yard resonated with the Sharks. They demonstrated a strong understanding of their business, their target market, and the competitive landscape.
3. The Sharks’ Reactions
The Sharks were initially impressed by the visuals of The Yard’s extravagant milkshakes. They were intrigued by the company’s rapid growth and successful franchise model.
However, some Sharks expressed concerns about the sustainability of the “freak shake” trend and the potential for market saturation.
4. Mark Cuban’s Sweet Deal (22% Equity)
Ultimately, it was Mark Cuban who saw the sweet potential in The Yard. Recognizing the value of their strong branding, unique product, and proven franchise model, Cuban offered $400,000 for a 22% stake in the company.
Logan and Chelsea accepted, securing a deal that would help them take The Yard to the next level.
The Yard After Shark Tank
1. Franchise Expansion and Growth
The Yard’s appearance on Shark Tank proved to be a significant turning point. The exposure and investment from Mark Cuban fueled rapid expansion.
Before the show, they had a handful of locations. Now, The Yard boasts a network of over 40 franchises across the United States.
This growth is a testament to the brand’s appeal and the effectiveness of their franchise model.
2. Menu Innovations and Seasonal Offerings
The Yard keeps its menu fresh and exciting by regularly introducing new flavors and limited-time offerings. This strategy keeps customers coming back for more and creates a sense of anticipation.
They also capitalize on seasonal trends, offering themed milkshakes for holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day.
3. Social Media and Branding Success
The Yard has mastered the art of social media marketing. Their Instagram feed is a visual feast of colorful, decadent milkshakes, generating significant buzz and attracting new customers.
They encourage user-generated content by creating photogenic products and encouraging customers to share their experiences.
This strategy has helped build a strong online community and amplify their brand message.
4. Estimated Annual Revenue and Valuation
While exact figures are not publicly available, it’s estimated that The Yard generates significant annual revenue.
With over 40 locations and high customer demand, it’s likely they bring in millions of dollars each year.
Their valuation has undoubtedly increased substantially since their Shark Tank appearance, thanks to their impressive growth and brand recognition.
Factors Contributing to The Yard’s Success
The Yard’s rapid rise to success isn’t just about delicious milkshakes. It’s a combination of smart strategies and market trends that have helped them stand out in the crowded dessert industry.
1. High-Quality Ingredients and Unique Flavors
The Yard doesn’t skimp on quality. They use premium ice cream and fresh ingredients to create a truly indulgent experience. But it’s their unique and creative flavor combinations that really set them apart.
From the “Peanut Butter Brownie Bliss” to the “Cotton Candy Explosion,” their menu offers something to tantalize every taste bud.
2. Instagrammable Creations
In today’s social media-driven world, visual appeal is key. The Yard understands this perfectly. Their milkshakes are designed to be as eye-catching as they are delicious.
Topped with towering stacks of cookies, candies, and even whole slices of cake, these creations are practically begging to be photographed and shared online.
3. Strong Franchise Model
The Yard has developed a robust franchise model that empowers entrepreneurs to replicate their success.
They provide comprehensive training, ongoing support, and established branding guidelines to ensure consistency across all locations.
This allows franchisees to focus on delivering a great customer experience and building their local market.
4. The “Shark Tank Effect”
Appearing on Shark Tank gave The Yard a massive boost in visibility and credibility. The show’s endorsement, coupled with Mark Cuban’s investment, helped solidify their position as a leader in the dessert industry.
This exposure attracted new customers, franchisees, and media attention, accelerating their growth trajectory.
Challenges and Future Outlook
1. Competition in the Dessert Industry
The food industry is notoriously competitive, and the dessert sector is no exception. The Yard faces competition from other specialty dessert shops, ice cream parlors, and even established restaurants.
To stay ahead, they need to constantly innovate and provide a unique customer experience.
2. Maintaining Brand Consistency Across Franchises
With rapid expansion comes the challenge of maintaining brand consistency across all locations.
The Yard needs to ensure that every franchise delivers the same high-quality products and customer service that defines the brand. This requires strong franchisee training and ongoing support.
3. Potential for Market Saturation
The popularity of “freak shakes” could eventually wane. The Yard needs to be prepared for shifting trends and evolving consumer preferences.
Diversifying their menu and offering new and exciting products will be crucial for long-term success.
4. Expansion Plans and New Ventures
The Yard shows no signs of slowing down. They continue to expand their franchise network and explore new opportunities.
This might include introducing new dessert concepts, expanding their product line, or even venturing into international markets.
Lessons Learned from The Yard
The Yard’s success story offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.
1. The Power of Visual Appeal
In today’s visually-driven world, presentation matters. The Yard’s Instagram-worthy creations demonstrate the power of visual appeal in attracting customers and generating social media buzz.
2. Building a Strong Brand Identity
The Yard has cultivated a strong brand identity that resonates with its target audience. Their focus on fun, family-friendly experiences and over-the-top indulgence sets them apart from the competition.
3. Leveraging Social Media Marketing
The Yard effectively uses social media to engage customers, build brand awareness, and drive sales. Their active presence on platforms like Instagram showcases the power of social media marketing in the food industry.
4. The Importance of a Scalable Business Model
The Yard’s franchise model has been instrumental in their rapid growth. Creating a scalable business model allows for expansion without compromising quality or brand consistency.
FAQs
How many locations does The Yard have?
The Yard currently has over 40 locations across the United States. They continue to expand through franchising.
Where is The Yard headquartered?
The Yard Milkshake Bar is headquartered in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where it was first established.
What are the most popular milkshake flavors?
Some of their most popular flavors include the “Peanut Butter Brownie Bliss,” the “Cotton Candy Explosion,” and the “Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Delight.” They also offer seasonal and limited-time flavors.
How much does a franchise cost?
The initial franchise fee for The Yard Milkshake Bar is $40,000. The total investment to open a franchise ranges from $278,000 to $678,500.
Did the deal with Mark Cuban go through?
Yes, the deal with Mark Cuban did go through. His investment and guidance have been instrumental in The Yard’s growth.
The Bottom Line
The Yard Milkshake Bar has transformed the simple milkshake into an extravagant, Instagram-worthy experience. Their commitment to quality ingredients, unique flavors, and strong branding has fueled their rapid growth.
By capitalizing on social media trends and implementing a successful franchise model, The Yard has become a leader in the competitive dessert industry. Their story serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs, demonstrating the power of creativity, innovation, and a well-executed business plan.
