From the court to the tank, billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban has built a reputation for spotting potential in fledgling businesses. Cuban’s eye for lucrative opportunities has led to an impressive roster of deals on the hit reality show Shark Tank. But which of these investments have proven to be the most fruitful? Join us as we explore some of his top deals on the show.
1. Tower Paddle Boards (Season 3)
Tower Paddle Boards produces high-quality stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) at affordable prices. Mark Cuban invested $150,000 for a 30% stake. Following the investment, Tower Paddle Boards expanded its product line to include related accessories and beach lifestyle products.
In 2015, Tower Paddle Boards was named one of the top 10 most successful Shark Tank companies by Forbes. The company has reported around $40 million in sales since appearing on Shark Tank.
2. The Simply Fit Board (Season 7)
Invented by Gloria Hoffman and Linda Clark, the Simply Fit Board is a balance board designed for at-home workouts. Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner invested a combined $125,000 for a 20% equity stake. After the episode aired, the business quickly expanded its distribution and enjoyed enormous success.
The Simply Fit Board was featured on QVC, Walmart, and other major retailers, selling over 1.5 million units within the first two years after the deal. The company has generated well over $160 million in sales since 2016.
3. Rugged Events (Season 5)
Rugged Events is a company specializing in organizing obstacle races and endurance events like the Rugged Maniac 5K. Mark Cuban invested $1.75 million for a 25% stake. After the Shark Tank episode, the company grew from organizing 10 events in 2013 to over 30 events across the United States and Canada, with over 150,000 annual participants.
In 2016, it was reported that Rugged Maniac had made over $10 million in revenue over a six year period. New Media Investment Group bought 80% of the company for $10.4 million in 2018. Cuban doubled his money on the deal within four years!
4. BeatBox Beverages (Season 6)
BeatBox Beverages produces portable, party-ready, wine-based punches in a variety of flavors. Mark Cuban invested $1 million for 10%! BeatBox Beverages grew its distribution and saw a significant increase in sales. They raised money at a $200 million valuation and are doing around $20 million in annual revenue. BeatBox Beverages is now available in major retailers, including Walmart and 7-Eleven.
5. Groovebook (Season 5)
Founded by Julie and Brian Whiteman, Groovebook offered a subscription service that allowed users to print up to 100 of their phone photos per month in a photobook for just $2.99, including shipping. After Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary invested $150,000 for 80% of the licensing rights, the company saw tremendous growth.
Their user base grew from 18,000 to over 500,000 subscribers within just a year after the show aired. In 2014, Shutterfly acquired Groovebook for $14.5 million. As of April 2022, Shutterfly shutdown the app.
6. Ten Thirty One Productions (Season 5)
Ten Thirty One Productions focused on live horror entertainment experiences, most notably the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride. After Mark Cuban invested $2 million for 20%, it moved into more cities like New York and Dallas.
The company reported over $3 million in revenue in 2015 and was doing well until 2018. An accident at an event caused an expensive lawsuit and the founders later sold the business to Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group to cover legal expenses.
7. Lollacup (Season 3)
Lollacup (now known as Lollaland) creates innovative infant and toddler feeding products, starting with their flagship product, Lollacup—a valve-free, weighted straw sippy cup. Mark Cuban and Robert Herjavec invested a combined $100,000 for a 40% piece of the business.
After Shark Tank, Lollacup experienced significant growth and began selling straw cups, plates, and utensils. Lollaland’s products are now available in over 300 retail locations across the United States, as well as on their website and on Amazon. Currently, Lollacup makes around $2 million per year.
