What is the name of the social enterprise featured in Shark Tank Season 10 that promotes ethically produced clothing from Africa? The social enterprise featured in Shark Tank Season 10 that promotes ethically produced clothing from Africa is called Uniform.
Summary
- Uniform is a socially conscious clothing brand that donates a school uniform to a child in Liberia for every subscription purchased.
- Founders Chid Liberty and Adam Butlein appeared on Shark Tank Season 10 seeking $300,000 for 10% equity.
- The company produces clothing in Liberia with fair trade African materials and employs Liberian women.
- Uniform did not secure a deal on Shark Tank but continues to operate, selling products online and in retail stores like Target and Bloomingdale’s.
Uniform Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10
Uniform is a clothing company with a conscience. They make high-quality clothes while also giving back to communities in Africa.
They were featured on Season 10 of Shark Tank, where they hoped to gain an investment to help grow their business.
Though they didn’t secure a deal, their mission and dedication to ethical practices continue to drive their success today.
The Mission Behind Uniform
Uniform aims to create fashionable clothing in a responsible way. They source materials from Africa and employ local workers, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions.
But their mission goes beyond just ethical production. For every item purchased, Uniform donates a school uniform to a child in Liberia.
This helps kids access education, which can be a challenge in impoverished communities where families can’t afford uniforms.
Uniform’s Shark Tank Journey
Founders Chid Liberty and Adam Butlein appeared on Shark Tank in hopes of securing funding to expand their business.
They presented their unique model, highlighting the ethical production and social impact of Uniform. While the Sharks were impressed with their mission, they ultimately didn’t invest.
However, the exposure from Shark Tank helped boost Uniform’s visibility and contributed to their continued growth.
Uniform’s Pitch on Shark Tank Season 10
1. The Pitch
| Entrepreneurs | Chid Liberty and Adam Butlein |
|---|---|
| Business | Ethical clothing company |
| Ask | $300,000 for 10% equity |
| Deal | No deal |
| Sharks | Robert Herjavec, Bethenny Frankel, Lori Greiner, Mark Cuban, Daymond John |
| Season – Episode | Season 10 – Episode 923 |
| Original Air Date | March 10, 2019 |
| Website | Uniform |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Declined |
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2. The Founders’ Story
Chid Liberty, originally from Liberia, returned to his home country after a successful career in Silicon Valley.
He was driven to make a positive impact and co-founded Liberty & Justice, Africa’s first fair-trade certified apparel manufacturer.
Adam Butlein, his business partner, shared his passion for ethical production and social responsibility.
Together, they created Uniform to combine their love of fashion with their desire to create positive change in the world.
3. The Uniform Business Model
Uniform operates on a subscription-based model, offering customers a curated selection of clothing items delivered regularly.
They prioritize high-quality materials and ethical production, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for their employees in Africa.
By cutting out middlemen and working directly with factories, Uniform can offer competitive prices while maintaining its commitment to ethical practices.
4. The Social Impact of Uniform
Uniform’s “buy one, give one” model has a direct and meaningful impact on communities in Liberia. For every piece of clothing purchased, they donate a school uniform to a child in need.
This simple act helps break down barriers to education and empowers children to reach their full potential.
Uniform’s commitment to social responsibility sets them apart in the fashion industry and inspires customers to make a difference through their purchases.
The Sharks’ Response
1. Why the Sharks Didn’t Invest
Despite Uniform’s compelling story and ethical mission, the Sharks ultimately declined to invest. Here’s why:
- Profitability Concerns: The Sharks questioned the company’s financial projections and profit margins. They were concerned about the costs associated with ethical sourcing and manufacturing in Africa, and whether Uniform could compete with larger clothing brands that produce goods overseas at lower costs.
- Competitive Landscape: The fashion industry is highly competitive, and the Sharks felt that Uniform might struggle to stand out in a crowded market. They were concerned about the company’s ability to scale and achieve widespread brand recognition.
- Marketing and Distribution: The Sharks also raised concerns about Uniform’s marketing strategy and distribution channels. They felt the company needed a more robust plan to reach a wider audience and increase sales.
2. Daymond John’s Offer of Mentorship
Although Daymond John didn’t invest in Uniform, he was clearly impressed with the founders’ passion and social mission.
He offered to mentor Chid Liberty and Adam Butlein, providing guidance and support as they continued to grow their business.
This mentorship could prove invaluable as Uniform navigates the challenges of the fashion industry and works to expand its impact.
Uniform Update: Where Are They Now?
1. Continued Growth and Success
Even without a Shark Tank deal, Uniform has continued to thrive. They’ve expanded their product line, offering a wider variety of clothing items for men and women.
They remain committed to their ethical sourcing and production practices, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for their employees in Africa.
Uniform has also focused on building a strong online presence and cultivating a loyal customer base who appreciate their commitment to social responsibility and stylish, high-quality clothing.
2. Partnerships with Target and Bloomingdale’s
One of Uniform’s biggest successes has been securing partnerships with major retailers like Target and Bloomingdale’s.
This has allowed them to reach a much larger audience and introduce their brand to new customers.
These partnerships are a testament to the quality of Uniform’s products and the appeal of their ethical and socially conscious business model.
By making their clothing available in these popular stores, Uniform is making it easier for consumers to make ethical choices and support businesses that are making a positive impact on the world.
FAQs
What is Uniform?
Uniform is a clothing company that creates ethically sourced and produced apparel. They are committed to fair wages, safe working conditions, and using sustainable materials.
What makes Uniform unique?
Uniform’s “buy one, give one” model sets them apart. For every item purchased, they donate a school uniform to a child in Liberia. This helps increase access to education and empowers children in need.
Where can I buy Uniform clothing?
You can purchase Uniform clothing online through their website. Their products may also be found at select retailers like Target and Bloomingdale’s.
What types of clothing does Uniform offer?
Uniform offers a variety of clothing items for men and women, including t-shirts, dresses, jumpsuits, and outerwear. They focus on creating high-quality, stylish pieces that are made to last.
Did Uniform get a deal on Shark Tank?
No, Uniform did not secure a deal on Shark Tank. However, the exposure from the show helped boost their brand awareness and contributed to their continued growth.
The Bottom Line
Uniform is a shining example of how businesses can be a force for good in the world. By prioritizing ethical production, fair labor practices, and social impact, they are proving that it’s possible to create beautiful clothing while also making a difference.
Though they didn’t get a deal on Shark Tank, Uniform’s commitment to their mission has led to continued success and partnerships with major retailers. When you choose Uniform, you’re not just buying clothes; you’re investing in a company that cares about people and the planet.
