What is Topsail Steamer, and what problem does it solve? Topsail Steamer offers easy-to-use seafood meal kits that take the guesswork out of preparing a delicious seafood boil at home. These kits, called “Bay Buckets,” come with all the fresh ingredients and seasonings needed, allowing anyone to recreate the joy of a beachside seafood feast in their own kitchen, regardless of their cooking expertise.
Summary
- Topsail Steamer, founded by Danielle Mahon, appeared on Shark Tank Season 16 Episode 2.
- The company sells “Bay Buckets” – kits containing fresh ingredients and seasonings for a complete seafood boil.
- Danielle sought $350,000 for 8% equity.
- She secured a deal with Lori Greiner and Todd Graves for $350,000 for 18% equity.
- Topsail Steamer focuses on nationwide shipping through Goldbelly.
- The company has seen steady growth and expansion since its Shark Tank appearance.
Topsail Steamer Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 16
Topsail Steamer brings the beach to your kitchen. Topsail Steamer captures this experience and brings it right to your kitchen.
No need for complicated recipes or trips to the fish market; just simple, delicious seafood that anyone can cook.
The Story Behind Topsail Steamer
Topsail Steamer was born from Danielle Mahon’s love for sharing delicious seafood with loved ones. Growing up, she cherished those memorable gatherings centered around a steaming pot of seafood.
Recognizing that not everyone has access to fresh seafood or the know-how to prepare it, Danielle created Topsail Steamer to make these experiences accessible to all.
Danielle Mahon’s Vision
Danielle’s vision was simple: to take the intimidation out of cooking seafood and make it a fun, effortless experience.
She wanted to provide families with a convenient way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood boils in the comfort of their own homes.
With Topsail Steamer, anyone can become a seafood chef, regardless of their culinary skills.
Topsail Steamer on Shark Tank Season 16
Danielle Mahon brought her passion for seafood and her innovative business idea to Shark Tank Season 16. Her energetic pitch and the mouthwatering aroma of her Bay Buckets captivated the Sharks.
1. The Pitch
| Entrepreneur | Danielle Mahon |
|---|---|
| Business | Topsail Steamer |
| Ask | $350,000 for 8% equity |
| Deal | $350,000 for 18% equity |
| Sharks | Lori Greiner and Todd Graves |
| Season | Season 16 |
| Original Air Date | October 25th, 2024 |
| Website | Topsail Steamer |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Accepted |
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2. Bay Buckets: What’s in the Kit?
Topsail Steamer’s signature product is the Bay Bucket, a complete seafood boil kit that contains everything you need for a delicious meal. Each bucket is packed with fresh, high-quality ingredients, including:
- Seafood: A variety of options, such as shrimp, crab legs, clams, and mussels.
- Sausage: Spicy andouille sausage adds a flavorful kick.
- Veggies: Corn on the cob and potatoes round out the meal.
- Seasoning: Topsail Steamer’s unique blend of spices adds the perfect finishing touch.
3. Business Model and Financials
Topsail Steamer operates both retail stores and an online platform. Customers can purchase Bay Buckets at their eight East Coast locations or order online for nationwide delivery through Goldbelly.
Danielle impressed the Sharks with her strong financials:
- Revenue: $4.5 million in 2023, projected to reach $5.7 million in 2024.
- Profit Margin: A healthy 60% profit margin, thanks to efficient cost management.
- Food Costs: Kept low at 28% of sales.
- Labor Costs: Well-managed at 17%.
4. The Sharks Take Bait: Negotiation and the Deal
The Sharks were clearly impressed with Topsail Steamer. Todd Graves, founder of Raising Cane’s, was the first to bite, offering $350,000 for 20% equity. Danielle countered with 16%, but Todd held firm.
Lori Greiner, recognizing the potential for growth, joined the negotiation, proposing a partnership with Todd.
After some back and forth, they agreed on a deal: $350,000 for 18% equity, split evenly between Lori and Todd.
Topsail Steamer Update
Since their appearance on Shark Tank, Topsail Steamer has been making waves in the food industry. Danielle and her team have been busy expanding their reach and refining their offerings, proving that their success story is just beginning.
1. Expanding Horizons
One of the key challenges for any food business is expanding its customer base. Topsail Steamer has tackled this head-on by focusing on nationwide shipping.
They understand that the desire for a delicious, hassle-free seafood boil isn’t limited to coastal regions.
By making their Bay Buckets available across the country, they’re bringing the joy of a beachside tradition to everyone.
2. Goldbelly Partnership
Topsail Steamer’s partnership with Goldbelly has been instrumental in their nationwide expansion. Goldbelly is an online platform that specializes in delivering gourmet food experiences from across the country.
Through Goldbelly, Topsail Steamer can reach a wider audience and share their passion for seafood with customers far and wide.
3. Product Diversification
While the classic Bay Bucket remains a customer favorite, Topsail Steamer is constantly innovating and expanding its product line.
They’ve introduced new flavors and options to cater to different tastes and preferences. This commitment to variety ensures that there’s a Topsail Steamer experience for everyone.
Some of their newest offerings include:
- Low Country Boil: This Southern classic features shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes seasoned with a unique blend of spices.
- Clambake Bucket: A New England favorite with clams, mussels, potatoes, and corn on the cob.
- Shrimp Boil: A simple and satisfying option with succulent shrimp, corn, and potatoes.
By offering a diverse range of seafood boils, Topsail Steamer is ensuring that they continue to appeal to a broad audience and solidify their position as a leader in the seafood meal kit market.
The Impact of Shark Tank
Appearing on Shark Tank can be a game-changer for any business. For Topsail Steamer, it provided a significant boost and opened doors to new opportunities.
1. Increased Brand Visibility and Recognition
Shark Tank offers a national platform to showcase a business to millions of viewers. This exposure instantly increased Topsail Steamer’s brand visibility and recognition.
People who had never heard of the company were suddenly interested in trying their unique seafood boil kits. This surge in awareness translated into increased website traffic and sales.
2. Leveraging the Expertise of Lori Greiner and Todd Graves
Securing a deal with Lori Greiner and Todd Graves was a major win for Topsail Steamer. Lori, known as the “Queen of QVC,” brings a wealth of experience in product development and marketing.
Todd, the founder of Raising Cane’s, has a deep understanding of the food industry and franchise operations.
Their guidance and mentorship are invaluable assets for Topsail Steamer as they navigate the challenges of growth and expansion.
3. Future Projections
With the support of their Shark investors, Topsail Steamer is well-positioned for continued success. They are exploring options for scaling up their operations to meet the increasing demand for their products.
This could involve expanding their production facilities, streamlining their distribution network, and enhancing their online presence.
Franchise opportunities are also on the horizon. Topsail Steamer’s proven business model and strong brand recognition make it an attractive franchise option for entrepreneurs looking to enter the food industry.
Expanding through franchising could significantly accelerate the company’s growth and bring the Topsail Steamer experience to even more communities.
Why Topsail Steamer is Making Waves
Topsail Steamer isn’t just another meal kit company. They’ve tapped into something special that resonates with customers. Here’s why they’re making a splash:
1. Simplicity and Convenience for Seafood Lovers
Let’s face it, cooking seafood can be intimidating. Topsail Steamer takes the guesswork out of the equation.
Their Bay Buckets provide pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, making it simple for anyone to create a delicious seafood feast at home.
This convenience is a major draw for busy individuals and families who want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.
2. High-Quality Ingredients and Authentic Flavors
Topsail Steamer is committed to using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Their seafood is sourced from trusted suppliers, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.
Their unique spice blends are carefully crafted to complement the natural flavors of the seafood, creating an authentic taste of the coast.
3. Creating Memorable Experiences: Beyond the Meal
Topsail Steamer is about more than just providing food; it’s about creating memorable experiences.
Their Bay Buckets are designed to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment.
Whether it’s a family gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or a special occasion celebration, Topsail Steamer helps create moments that will be cherished long after the meal is over.
How to Get Your Own Topsail Steamer Experience
Ready to dive into a delicious seafood feast? Here’s how you can get your hands on a Topsail Steamer Bay Bucket:
1. Ordering Online: Website and Goldbelly
The easiest way to experience Topsail Steamer is to order online. You can visit their website, to browse their menu and place your order.
They offer nationwide shipping through Goldbelly, so no matter where you are in the continental US, you can enjoy a taste of the coast.
2. Visiting Topsail Steamer Stores: East Coast Locations
If you’re lucky enough to live near the East Coast, you can visit one of their eight retail locations. They have stores in North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware, Florida, and Alabama.
Visiting a store allows you to see the fresh ingredients firsthand and get personalized recommendations from their friendly staff.
3. Special Offers and Promotions
Topsail Steamer often runs special offers and promotions, making it even easier to enjoy their delicious seafood boils.
Be sure to check their website and social media pages for the latest deals. You can also sign up for their email list to stay informed about new products, promotions, and events.
Here are some ways to stay updated on Topsail Steamer’s offerings:
- Visit their website: topsailsteamer.com
- Follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram
- Sign up for their email list: Receive exclusive offers and updates.
No matter how you choose to experience Topsail Steamer, you’re in for a treat. Their Bay Buckets offer a convenient, delicious, and memorable way to enjoy fresh, high-quality seafood. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to savor the flavors of the coast!
FAQs
What types of seafood are included in the Bay Buckets?
Topsail Steamer offers a variety of Bay Buckets featuring different types of seafood. You can find buckets with shrimp, snow crab legs, clams, mussels, and even lobster. Each bucket also includes andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes.
How long does it take to cook a Topsail Steamer meal?
Cooking a Topsail Steamer meal is quick and easy! It typically takes around 20-30 minutes from start to finish. The exact cooking time will depend on the specific Bay Bucket you choose and your stovetop. But don’t worry, easy-to-follow instructions are included with every kit.
Are there vegetarian options available?
While Topsail Steamer specializes in seafood, they do offer a “Veggie Bucket” for those who prefer a plant-based meal. This bucket includes corn on the cob, potatoes, andouille sausage, and a flavorful broth.
What is the shelf life of a Topsail Steamer kit?
Topsail Steamer kits are designed to be enjoyed fresh. They recommend cooking your Bay Bucket within 2 days of receiving it for the best flavor and quality.
Does Topsail Steamer offer catering services?
Yes, Topsail Steamer offers catering services for events of all sizes. Their catering menu includes their signature Bay Buckets, as well as a variety of sides and add-ons. This is a great option for parties, corporate events, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and unique dining experience.
The Bottom Line
Topsail Steamer has successfully captured the essence of a coastal seafood boil and made it accessible to everyone. Their Bay Buckets offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy fresh, high-quality seafood without any fuss. With their commitment to simplicity, flavor, and creating memorable experiences, Topsail Steamer is riding a wave of success and bringing the joy of seafood to kitchens across the country.
