What are Pick Up Pools, and how did they fare on Shark Tank Season 10? Pick Up Pools are custom-made vinyl liners that turn a pickup truck bed into a portable pool. The founder, Tommy Prestella, pitched the idea on Shark Tank Season 10, seeking $100,000 for 25% equity. He successfully secured a deal with Mark Cuban for $100,000 in exchange for 33.3% equity.
Summary
- Pick Up Pools are vinyl liners that create pools in pickup truck beds.
- Founder Tommy Prestella got the idea from making a makeshift pool for his daughter.
- He appeared on Shark Tank Season 10, seeking $100,000 for 25% equity.
- Mark Cuban invested $100,000 for 33.3% equity.
- The company aimed to lower manufacturing costs and improve its website.
- Despite initial success and securing a deal with Mark Cuban, the company appears to be out of business as of August 2022.
Pick Up Pools Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10
Pick Up Pools was a unique product that aimed to bring the joy of swimming to anyone with a pickup truck. It was a simple yet innovative idea: a custom-made vinyl liner that transformed a truck bed into a portable pool.
The Origin of Pick Up Pools
The idea for Pick Up Pools came from a father’s desire to keep his daughter cool during a scorching summer.
Tommy Prestella, an Air Force pilot, ingeniously created a makeshift pool in his truck bed using a tarp and bungee cords.
This sparked an idea that eventually led to the development of a durable, custom-fit pool liner.
Tommy Prestella’s Journey to Shark Tank
Recognizing the potential of his creation, Tommy Prestella decided to take his Pick Up Pools to the popular TV show Shark Tank.
He hoped to secure an investment that would help him scale his business and reach a wider audience.
Pick Up Pools on Shark Tank Season 10
1. The Pitch
Tommy Prestella walked into the Shark Tank with a prototype of his Pick Up Pools, hoping to make a splash with the investors.
Here’s a breakdown of his pitch:
| Entrepreneurs | Tommy Prestella |
|---|---|
| Business | Pick Up Pools |
| Ask | $100,000 for 25% equity |
| Deal | $100,000 for 33.3% equity |
| Sharks | Mark Cuban |
| Season – Episode | Season 10 – Episode 14 |
| Original Air Date | March 10, 2019 |
| Website | Pick Up Pools |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Accepted |
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2. The Sharks’ Reactions
The Sharks were intrigued by the novelty of Pick Up Pools. Some, like Lori Greiner, were initially hesitant, expressing concerns about the market size and marketing strategy.
Others, like Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary, were ultimately dissuaded by the low sales figures at the time.
3. The Deal with Mark Cuban
Despite the reservations of some Sharks, Mark Cuban saw the potential in Pick Up Pools.
He recognized the product’s appeal and believed that with improved manufacturing processes and a stronger online presence, it could become a success.
He offered Tommy $100,000 for a 33.3% stake in the company, an offer Tommy readily accepted.
Pick Up Pools After Shark Tank
1. Updates and Developments
After securing the deal with Mark Cuban, Pick Up Pools seemed poised for growth.
The company’s website was revamped, and they expanded their product line to include three different sizes of pool liners to fit various truck bed lengths.
They also actively engaged in social media marketing to increase brand visibility.
2. Challenges and Successes
While Pick Up Pools initially experienced a surge in interest after their Shark Tank appearance, they faced challenges common to many startups.
Maintaining consistent sales and managing manufacturing costs proved to be ongoing hurdles.
Despite these challenges, they successfully fulfilled orders and garnered positive customer reviews, particularly for the product’s portability and novelty.
3. Website and Social Media Presence
Pick Up Pools maintained an active online presence for a period after their Shark Tank appearance. Their website showcased their products, offered customer support, and facilitated online orders.
They also utilized social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to engage with customers and promote their unique pool liners.
However, as of August 2022, their website became inaccessible, and their social media channels went dark
The Demise of Pick Up Pools?
1. Indications of Closure
Despite the initial promise, Pick Up Pools appears to have ceased operations. Their website is no longer active, redirecting to an unrelated site.
Their social media presence has also vanished, with no updates or activity since 2022. These are strong indicators that the business has closed down.
2. Possible Reasons for Going Out of Business
Several factors could have contributed to the apparent closure of Pick Up Pools:
- Limited Market: While the idea was unique, the market for truck bed pools might be inherently limited. Not everyone owns a pickup truck, and even among truck owners, the desire for a portable pool might not be widespread.
- Seasonality: The demand for pools is highly seasonal, primarily concentrated in the summer months. This seasonality could have created significant fluctuations in sales and revenue.
- Competition: The novelty of Pick Up Pools might have attracted competitors offering similar products, potentially at lower prices.
- Manufacturing and Shipping Costs: Producing and shipping large vinyl liners could be expensive, impacting profitability.
Lessons Learned
The story of Pick Up Pools offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Market Validation: Thoroughly research and validate your target market before investing heavily in a product. Ensure there is sufficient demand to sustain your business.
- Cost Management: Carefully analyze manufacturing, shipping, and operational costs to ensure your product can be priced competitively and generate profit.
- Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt your business strategy and product offerings based on market feedback and changing trends.
- Sustainability: Consider the long-term viability of your product and business model, especially if it caters to a niche market or is susceptible to seasonality.
Even though Pick Up Pools might have ended its journey, its story serves as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing entrepreneurial dreams. It highlights the importance of careful planning, market awareness, and adaptability in the competitive business landscape.
FAQs
Are Pick Up Pools still in business?
Unfortunately, it appears that Pick Up Pools is no longer operational. Their website and social media channels are inactive, suggesting they have ceased operations.
Where can I buy a Pick Up Pool?
As Pick Up Pools seems to be out of business, their products are no longer available for purchase. You might be able to find similar products or alternatives from other manufacturers online.
How much did Mark Cuban invest in Pick Up Pools?
Mark Cuban invested $100,000 in Pick Up Pools in exchange for a 33.3% equity stake in the company.
Why did Pick Up Pools fail?
While the exact reasons for their closure are unknown, several factors could have contributed, including a limited market, seasonality, competition, and manufacturing costs.
The Bottom Line
Pick Up Pools presented a unique and innovative product that captured the attention of consumers and investors alike. Despite its initial promise and a successful Shark Tank appearance, the company appears to have succumbed to the challenges faced by many startups.
The story of Pick Up Pools serves as a valuable case study for entrepreneurs. It highlights the importance of thorough market research, cost management, and adaptability in navigating the competitive business landscape. While the company may be gone, the lessons learned from their journey can help guide other entrepreneurs in their pursuit of success.
