McClary Bros. Drinking Vinegars
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: September 25, 2015
Asking For:
$100,000 for 15%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
McClary Bros. offers drinking vinegars made with organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar and natural, organic ingredients, aiming to provide a natural alternative to traditional sodas and appeal to craft cocktail enthusiasts.
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Background Story
Founder Jess Sanchez McClary started McClary Bros. while in culinary school, inspired by old-fashioned preservation techniques with simple ingredients. The idea struck her when she discovered colonial-era drinking vinegars called shrubs. Choosing vinegar as a preservative instead of artificial additives, she aimed to revive this concept for modern consumers looking for natural alternatives.
The Product
McClary Bros.’ drinking vinegars are made with organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar and various natural, organic flavors. The product is positioned as a mixer for craft cocktails or as a natural alternative to traditional sodas.
The health benefits of vinegar include potential cholesterol reduction and stabilizing blood sugar levels. The company is targeting the craft cocktail market and larger restaurant chains.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
McClary Bros. has been in business since 2012, with $305,000 in sales. The focus has been on expanding into larger restaurant chains catering to the craft cocktail customer. The founders emphasize the differentiation in taste, aiming to become a go-to brand for high-end vinegar mixers. The product has gained traction in the market, and the company is making a profit each year.
The Negotiations:
Despite positive feedback on the brand and packaging, none of the Sharks offered a deal. Concerns were raised about the niche market and the challenge of introducing vinegar-based drinks to a broader audience. The founder expressed confidence in the pitch and their profitability but acknowledged that growth might take longer than desired.
In summary, McClary Bros. pitched a line of drinking vinegars to the Sharks, emphasizing their natural and organic approach. While the Sharks appreciated the brand and packaging, concerns about market size and the challenge of redefining a category led to no deal being made.
