Ecomower
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: April 29, 2011
Asking For:
$90,000 for 20%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
Ecomowers offers the Ecomower, an eco-friendly lawn mower that is gas-free, battery-free, and silent, with a frictionless cutting system.
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Background Story
Ecomowers, founded by Andy Humphrey, emerged from a combination of environmental concern and entrepreneurial ambition. Andy brought his passion for eco-friendly solutions to the lawn care industry. With a background in online retail, Andy initially focused on selling traditional push mowers, recognizing a gap in the market for environmentally conscious consumers. However, it was his observation of the alarming environmental impact of conventional lawn mowers that sparked the idea for Ecomowers.
Driven by the desire to address both the environmental and health issues associated with traditional lawn mowers, Andy embarked on a journey to create a more sustainable alternative. His vision was not just to develop a product but to establish a brand synonymous with eco-friendly lawn care solutions. Drawing inspiration from the impending EPA regulations on emissions from lawn and garden equipment, Andy saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing trend towards sustainability.
Through research and development, Andy conceptualized the Ecomower, a revolutionary lawn mower that operates without gas or batteries and produces minimal noise pollution. The frictionless cutting system, a key feature of the Ecomower, sets it apart from traditional mowers by eliminating the need for blade sharpening. Andy’s commitment to innovation and sustainability drove him to create a product that not only meets consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives but also aligns with his personal values. With Ecomowers, Andy aims to redefine the lawn care industry, offering consumers a greener, cleaner, and quieter way to maintain their lawns.
The Product
Ecomowers introduces a paradigm shift in lawn care with its flagship product, the Ecomower. Unlike traditional gas-powered or battery-operated lawn mowers, the Ecomower operates entirely without the need for external power sources. Its innovative design utilizes a frictionless cutting system, where blades spin without making direct contact, eliminating the need for blade sharpening and reducing maintenance requirements.
Functioning silently, the Ecomower provides users with a peaceful and eco-friendly lawn care experience, free from the noise and emissions associated with conventional mowers. The absence of gas or batteries not only reduces environmental impact but also offers users greater convenience and cost savings.
Ideal for residential use, the Ecomower is suitable for small to medium-sized lawns and offers effortless maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around obstacles. Its gentle grass-cutting action allows clippings to naturally fertilize the lawn, promoting healthy growth without the need for additional chemicals.
Ecomowers can be purchased directly from the company’s website or through select retailers committed to sustainability. While pricing details are not provided in the pitch, potential customers can expect to invest in a premium-quality, environmentally friendly lawn care solution that aligns with their values and contributes to a greener future.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
Ecomowers, as presented on Shark Tank, provided limited insights into its current performance and business structure. However, based on the pitch, the company appears to be in the early stages of development, with a focus on product innovation and brand establishment. Andy Humphrey, the founder, mentioned generating $350,000 in sales by retailing traditional push mowers through an online store. This suggests a modest level of revenue, indicating some level of market traction for the brand’s offerings.
Regarding partnerships and distribution channels, Ecomowers did not mention any specific partners or wholesalers during the pitch. However, given Andy’s background in online retail, it’s likely that the company sells its products directly through its website and possibly through other online marketplaces. As for funding, Ecomowers sought a $90,000 investment from the Sharks in exchange for a 20% equity stake in the company. However, no information was provided regarding the company’s current funding sources or whether it had received any prior investments.
The Negotiations:
During the negotiations on Shark Tank, Andy Humphrey faced skepticism from the Sharks regarding the viability of Ecomowers’ product and business model. Despite his passionate pitch about the environmental benefits of the Ecomower, the Sharks raised concerns about its differentiation from existing products in the market and the company’s sales performance.
Several Sharks questioned the scalability of the business and Andy’s strategy of manufacturing his own lawn mower rather than private labeling existing products. Kevin O’Leary proposed a humorous offer, suggesting he would invest $450,000 in a company called “Green Mowers” and hire someone to sharpen mowers for life, highlighting the perceived impracticality of Ecomowers’ approach.
Ultimately, none of the Sharks were convinced to invest in Ecomowers. Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, and Lori Greiner expressed doubts about the product’s market appeal and competitive advantage, opting to pass on the opportunity. Daymond John, while initially intrigued by the branding potential, ultimately decided not to make an offer, citing concerns about the company’s lack of sales for the Ecomower prototype. Despite the rejection, Andy remained confident in the potential of Ecomowers and defended his vision for the brand.
