TA3 Shaping Swimwear
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: October 16, 2020
Asking For:
$500,000 for 10%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
TA3 offers a unique swimsuit that utilizes innovative compression and lacing to enhance and support the wearer’s body shape.
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Background Story
Founded by Leila Shams, a distinguished fashion designer based in Los Angeles, TA3 emerged from her deep understanding of the fashion industry and her desire to revolutionize swimwear. With over two decades of experience as a design director for prominent brands such as DKNY Jeans, Express, and Bebe in New York, Leila brought a wealth of expertise and creativity to the table. Her extensive background in the fashion world provided her with invaluable insights into consumer preferences and market trends.
Leila’s vision for TA3 was inspired by a need to address the persistent struggles women face when searching for a swimsuit that not only enhances their body but also provides comfort and support. Located in the vibrant fashion hub of Los Angeles, Leila cultivated her passion for creating a swimwear line that transcended conventional design limitations. Her aim was to offer a solution that combined aesthetics with functionality, empowering women to feel confident and comfortable in their swimwear.
Driven by her dedication to inclusivity, Leila ensured that TA3 catered to a diverse range of body types, with sizes ranging from extra small to 3X. Leveraging her comprehensive knowledge of fashion construction and material selection, she engineered the unique swimsuit design that integrated an innovative compression system, allowing wearers to customize the fit and highlight their natural curves. This combination of Leila’s extensive design experience, commitment to inclusivity, and dedication to solving a common consumer problem laid the foundation for TA3’s impactful presence in the swimwear industry.
The Product
TA3 introduces a groundbreaking swimsuit that redefines the conventional approach to swimwear, providing a blend of style, support, and functionality. Designed to enhance the wearer’s natural shape, the TA3 swimsuit incorporates a unique compression and lacing system that allows for personalized adjustments, emphasizing the waist and creating a sculpted silhouette. The carefully selected, high-quality materials offer a form-flattering fit, ensuring both comfort and confidence for the wearer.
The swimsuits are available for purchase directly from the TA3 website, providing customers with easy access to the innovative swimwear line. With a pricing point set at $178, the product represents a premium offering within the swimwear market, reflecting the exceptional design and craftsmanship incorporated into each piece. TA3’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its diverse sizing range, catering to customers from extra small to 3X, promoting body positivity and inclusiveness.
The product’s unique construction and innovative features, including the double-layer lining along the waist and front, contribute to the swimsuit’s ability to offer both support and a flattering silhouette. With an emphasis on providing a solution to the common discomfort experienced with traditional swimwear, TA3’s product line stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to empowering individuals to feel confident and at ease in their swimwear.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
TA3 has demonstrated robust performance within the swimwear market, attaining a commendable position since its inception. Operating primarily as a direct-to-consumer business, the company has strategically established a strong online presence, engaging with customers directly through its website. With a focus on fostering a loyal customer base, TA3 has successfully cultivated a community of individuals seeking premium, body-enhancing swimwear solutions.
Leila Shams, the founder, remains the driving force behind the company’s vision, utilizing her extensive fashion design experience and keen understanding of consumer preferences to steer TA3’s growth. While TA3’s business model centers on direct sales to consumers, the company has forged key partnerships with various influencers and collaborators within the fashion and lifestyle industry. These partnerships have played a crucial role in expanding TA3’s brand visibility and reaching a wider audience. Additionally, the company has established collaborations with select retailers, leveraging strategic wholesaling arrangements to further amplify its market reach.
In terms of financials, TA3 has demonstrated robust revenue generation, achieving an impressive $1.4 million in sales within the first 13 months of operation. With a gross profit of $800,000 and an operating profit of $500,000, the company has illustrated a strong financial foundation. Leila’s prudent management of the company’s resources has enabled her to maintain a favorable profit margin, contributing to TA3’s sustained growth and stability.
The Negotiations:
During the negotiations, the Sharks displayed keen interest in TA3’s unique swimsuit concept, acknowledging the value proposition it presented within the swimwear industry. Leila Shams, the founder, confidently pitched her company, seeking a $500,000 investment in exchange for a 10% stake. Several Sharks expressed enthusiasm for the product, recognizing its potential in addressing common swimwear-related concerns. Questions raised during the negotiations primarily revolved around the company’s financial performance and inventory management.
While some Sharks were impressed by TA3’s sales figures, concerns were raised about the challenges associated with maintaining inventory levels, particularly within the apparel industry. Leila’s robust sales strategy, including effective utilization of platforms like Instagram and TikTok, garnered appreciation from the Sharks, highlighting the company’s strong marketing approach. Despite the positive reception, concerns about the potential risks associated with inventory management influenced the Sharks’ decisions.
While acknowledging the product’s innovative features, some Sharks ultimately opted out, citing their apprehensions about the scalability and long-term viability of the business. They emphasized the potential pitfalls of managing excess inventory and the challenges that could arise with seasonal fluctuations in demand. Although Leila left the Tank without securing a deal, she remained resolute in her vision for TA3’s success. While the negotiations didn’t lead to a partnership with the Sharks, the interest shown by the panel underscored the market potential of TA3’s distinctive swimsuit design and highlighted the need for strategic management of the company’s inventory and operational scalability.
