Earlier this season, Parker’s Real Maple entered the Shark Tank with its syrup, cotton candy and butter made from real maple.
Back then, we interviewed its 18-year-old owner, Joshua Parker, who got the idea for the company on a field trip at just 11 years old. Although he did not get a deal on the show, that did not hinder his company’s growth right after the Tank aired. In fact, he said sales in the following week reached over a quarter-of-a-million dollars.
Here’s what else he told us about…
The Sharks’ Assessment
I believe the Sharks’ assessment was fair. I see no reason to regret or be burdened with remorse. I trust that the plan God has for Parker’s Maple is greater than anything I could ever imagine. I used the criticisms to grow and the encouragements as North Stars, pursuing them with all of my ability.
Advice for Future ‘Tank’ Contestants
Focus on your personal and business points of differentiation where broad national appeal could be generated. Think in terms of the producers, who of course want good businesses, but primarily want good businesses that will make great TV. Think and act on these key differences/points of differences in every part of the casting process. Also, have confidence in what you do and who you are. They need to know you can handle the pressure of the Tank.
Plans for the Future
I am doubling down on our current products and working to pay off the debt to my parents. Our focus right now is to make our shipping, sales, production and other processes work 100 percent efficiently so that we can satisfy the gracious customers we have gained through the past few months.
Interested in Parker’s Real Maple? Buy it here.
Other Shark Tank food products:
