Fat Ass Fudge
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: December 4, 2012
Asking For:
$250,000 for 5%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
Fat Ass Fudge is a line of gourmet fudge made with goat milk, lactose-free and gluten-free, offering a unique and indulgent treat.
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Background Story
Donna McCue, the president and founder of Fat Ass Fudge, transformed her grandmother’s fudge recipe into a modern indulgence. Inspired by her passion for chocolate and years of perfecting her craft, Donna launched her business after receiving encouragement from family and friends at her 60th birthday party. The name “Fat Ass” was a humorous nod to childhood nicknames and became the hallmark of her brand.
Starting at farmers’ markets, Donna quickly gained attention with her unique product, eventually landing a deal with Whole Foods. Despite facing skepticism from the sharks, Donna’s unwavering enthusiasm and dedication to her product were evident throughout her pitch.
The Product
Fat Ass Fudge is a premium line of fudge made with goat milk, catering to lactose-intolerant and gluten-sensitive consumers. Infused with Donna’s passion for chocolate and show business background, each batch is handcrafted to perfection, offering a rich and indulgent taste experience.
The fudge is available in various flavors, including vanilla and chocolate, with a smooth texture that keeps customers coming back for more. Packaged with care, Fat Ass Fudge is presented as a special treat, perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment. Customers can purchase Fat Ass Fudge directly from Donna at farmers’ markets or find it on the shelves of select Whole Foods stores.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
Despite its niche market and limited distribution, Fat Ass Fudge has shown potential with $60,000 in sales over the past 12 months. Donna’s partnership with Whole Foods indicates a growing interest in her product, with orders steadily increasing. However, the company’s current structure relies heavily on Donna’s personal efforts, from production to sales.
While the brand has gained recognition and momentum, it lacks scalability and strategic direction. Without additional funding or resources, Fat Ass Fudge may struggle to expand beyond its current reach. Furthermore, the company’s profitability and financial stability remain uncertain, given its relatively low sales figures and lack of established partnerships beyond Whole Foods.
The Negotiations:
The negotiations with the sharks were lively but ultimately unsuccessful. Donna’s initial ask of $250,000 for 5% equity was met with skepticism, especially considering the company’s modest sales figures. Kevin proposed an extreme counteroffer of $250,000 for 1,000% equity, highlighting the perceived risk and uncertainty surrounding the investment.
Despite Barbara’s encouragement and recognition of Donna’s passion, none of the sharks were willing to commit to a deal. Mark and Barbara both opted out, believing Donna could succeed independently, while Kevin and Robert expressed concerns about the company’s scalability and Donna’s ability to manage it effectively. In the end, Donna left the tank without a deal but remained optimistic about the future of Fat Ass Fudge.
