Doughp Update: What Happened After Shark Tank Season 10?

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Doughp Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10

What is Doughp? Doughp is a company that makes and sells edible, egg-free cookie dough in a variety of flavors. They offer their products at retail locations, online, and through wholesale distribution.

Summary
  • Doughp is an edible cookie dough company created by Kelsey Witherow.
  • Kelsey pitched her business on Shark Tank Season 10, seeking $450,000 for 10% equity.
  • The Sharks were impressed with the taste and branding but concerned about the valuation and health implications.
  • Kelsey left without a deal but secured $500,000 in funding afterward.
  • Doughp expanded to Las Vegas and saw significant growth in e-commerce sales.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic forced Doughp to pivot to online sales, which proved successful.
  • Doughp has since expanded into retail stores like Costco and Walmart and launched new products.
  • Kelsey celebrated 7 years of sobriety and started the Doughp for Hope Foundation to help people recovering from addiction.

Doughp Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10

Doughp, the brainchild of Kelsey Witherow, burst onto the Shark Tank scene in Season 10 with a unique offering: edible, egg-free cookie dough.

This delicious treat, available in a variety of tempting flavors, aimed to satisfy those cookie dough cravings without the risk of salmonella.

While the Sharks were undoubtedly impressed with the taste, the pitch ultimately failed to secure an investment.

Doughp on Shark Tank

1. Kelsey’s Pitch

Kelsey entered the Tank with confidence and a clear vision for her company. She presented Doughp as a fun, innovative brand with a strong social conscience.

Here’s a breakdown of her pitch:

Entrepreneurs Kelsey Witherow
Business Doughp (Edible Cookie Dough)
Ask $450,000 for 10% equity
Deal No Deal
Sharks Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec
Season – Episode Season 10 – Episode 22
Original Air Date May 5, 2019
Website Doughp
Key Points of Pitch
  • Edible, egg-free cookie dough in various flavors
  • Strong sales and customer base
  • Socially conscious business model (supporting addiction recovery)
Why Sharks Declined
  • Concerns about high valuation
  • Concerns about health implications of a dessert-based product
  • Limited market appeal (some Sharks didn’t like cookie dough)

2. The Sharks’ Response

The Sharks were initially intrigued by Doughp. They enjoyed the samples and acknowledged the company’s impressive sales figures. Kelsey’s passion and the brand’s social mission also resonated with them.

However, concerns quickly arose regarding the high valuation and the product’s potential health implications.

Some Sharks, like Robert Herjavec, simply weren’t fans of cookie dough, which further dampened their interest.

3. Why No Deal?

Ultimately, the Sharks decided not to invest in Doughp for a combination of reasons. The primary concerns were the high valuation and the product’s position in the market.

The Sharks felt that the company’s valuation of $4.5 million was not justified by its current performance and future potential.

Additionally, they questioned the long-term viability of a business centered around a dessert product, particularly in a climate of increasing health consciousness. While Doughp’s social mission was admirable, it wasn’t enough to outweigh these fundamental concerns.

Doughp After Shark Tank

Though Kelsey didn’t get a deal on Shark Tank, she didn’t let that stop her. She used the experience as fuel to grow Doughp even bigger. Here’s how she did it:

1. Securing Funding and Expansion

Even without the Sharks’ backing, Kelsey secured a significant investment of $500,000 from another investor shortly after her Shark Tank appearance.

This allowed her to expand Doughp’s operations. She opened a new store on the Las Vegas strip and even set up cookie dough vending machines at McCarran International Airport.

This strategic move broadened the company’s reach and introduced Doughp to a wider audience.

2. E-commerce Success

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many businesses struggled. Doughp, however, found opportunity in the challenge. With in-person sales limited, Kelsey shifted her focus to e-commerce.

This proved to be a smart move, as online sales skyrocketed. Doughp went from generating $50,000 in online sales in 2019 to a remarkable $2.5 million in 2020 and $5 million in 2021.

This rapid growth demonstrated the power of adapting to changing circumstances and leveraging online platforms.

3. New Products and Retail Partnerships

Kelsey didn’t just rely on her original cookie dough flavors. She expanded her product line to include Doughp Drops, bite-sized pieces of cookie dough perfect for snacking.

This innovation catered to those wanting smaller portions and added variety to the Doughp experience.

Furthermore, she secured retail partnerships with major stores like Costco and Walmart, making Doughp accessible to a much larger customer base.

4. Doughp for Hope Foundation

Staying true to her mission of social responsibility, Kelsey launched the Doughp for Hope Foundation. This foundation supports individuals recovering from addiction, a cause close to her heart.

By giving back to the community and promoting a positive message, Doughp strengthened its brand image and built a loyal following.

The COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to businesses worldwide. Doughp, like many others, had to adapt quickly to survive.

1. Pivoting to Online Sales

With lockdowns and restrictions in place, Doughp’s retail locations faced significant disruptions. Kelsey recognized the need to shift focus and ramped up the company’s online presence.

This meant improving the website, investing in digital marketing, and streamlining the online ordering process.

The ability to pivot quickly to e-commerce proved crucial in maintaining sales and reaching customers who were staying home.

2. Growth Despite Challenges

Despite the difficulties posed by the pandemic, Doughp not only survived but thrived. The increased focus on online sales led to remarkable growth, with e-commerce revenue multiplying significantly.

This success demonstrated the resilience of the business and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

By embracing the challenges and finding new avenues for growth, Doughp emerged stronger from the pandemic.

Doughp Today

Doughp has come a long way since its appearance on Shark Tank. Let’s take a look at where the company stands today.

1. Financial Performance

Doughp has experienced impressive financial growth, particularly in its e-commerce sector. The company has generated millions in revenue and continues to expand its reach through retail partnerships and online sales.

While exact figures are not always publicly available, it’s clear that Doughp has achieved considerable success and built a profitable business.

2. Social Impact

Doughp remains committed to its social mission. The Doughp for Hope Foundation continues to support individuals in addiction recovery.

This dedication to social responsibility has helped Doughp cultivate a positive brand image and connect with customers who value ethical and socially conscious businesses.

3. Future Outlook

Doughp appears to have a bright future ahead. The company has demonstrated its ability to innovate, adapt, and grow.

With a strong online presence, expanding retail partnerships, and a commitment to social impact, Doughp is well-positioned for continued success.

As consumer demand for indulgent treats like edible cookie dough remains strong, Doughp is likely to remain a popular choice for those seeking a sweet and satisfying snack.

FAQs

Where can I buy Doughp?

Doughp is available online at their website, eatdoughp.com, and at select retailers like Costco and Walmart. You can also find their store locations on their website.

Is Doughp safe to eat raw?

Yes, Doughp is made with heat-treated flour and no eggs, making it completely safe to eat straight from the container.

What flavors does Doughp come in?

Doughp offers a variety of classic and unique flavors, including Chocolate Chip, Cookies & Cream, Brownie Batter, and seasonal specials.

Does Doughp have gluten-free or vegan options?

Yes, Doughp offers gluten-free and vegan flavors to cater to different dietary needs.

The Bottom Line

Doughp’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of a good idea. Despite facing setbacks, Kelsey Witherow turned a Shark Tank “no” into a resounding success. By focusing on e-commerce, expanding product lines, and staying true to her social mission, she built a thriving business that continues to grow. Doughp’s story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder that success often comes from overcoming challenges and embracing change.

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