Skin issues have been a growing concern with global environmental problems. Issues like Eczema have serious implications and even the commonly used bath bombs, soap, etc. can have an adverse effect on our skin causing extreme pain and itching.
Kristen Dunning, the owner of Gently Soap, has the perfect solution for all sensitive skin. Her bathing line contains products that are free from artificial chemicals and additives and are replaced by plants that have their own gentle aromas.
The owner came on Shark Tank to request $75K for 10% of her company. She also brought her four different types of soaps for the judges. Let’s explore her journey on the show.
Gently Soap Net Worth Shark Tank Update
Kristen was looking for an investment of $75K in exchange for 10% equity in her company, Gently Soap. At the time of the episode, she valued her company at $750K. Kristen successfully secured a deal with Candace for an investment of $75K for 25% equity in the company. The investment adjusted the company’s net worth to around $300K. After the show aired, the company experienced a good boost in exposure. As per my rough estimate, the current net worth of Gently Soap in 2024 is around $1.5 million.
Shark(s) name | Offer & Demand | Counteroffer | Accepted? |
Kevin O’Leary | $75K for 10% equity | $75K for 10% equity, plus a $1 royalty per bar sold. When he makes back $500K, the royalty drops to $0.20 per bar sold. | No |
Mark Cuban | Out | N\A | N\A |
John Daymond | Out | N\A | N\A |
Lori Greiner | Out | N\A | N\A |
Candace Nelson | $75K for 10% equity | $75K for 25% equity | Yes |
The Owner’s Backstory
The product is basically from her Grandparent’s legacy. She is an agricultural researcher and has a degree in agricultural communication and horticulture. She related that her grandparents have an 84-acre farm in Alabama which she used to visit in the summer holidays.
She had spent three years in greenhouses to study horticulture and learn the power of plants. Her own eczema issue compelled her to create a product that can be used easily while bathing without any skin problems. Thus, she created Gently Soap which has plants like lavender that are easy, fragrant, and light to use by any skin type.
Initial Pitch
The owner came on the show to seek $75K for a 10% equity stake. Her product is basically a bath line that has replaced the common additives and chemicals with organic plant-based content, causing all skin types to feel fresh and smooth.
Queries about the Product
Candace asked the first question about the medium of selling the product. Kristen replied that her business is fully e-commerce and the business is about to launch on Amazon in literally two weeks period.
Kevin asked about her sales so far. The owner pointed out that the sales had been $113K since February 2021. She started the journey when she was a full-time student and researcher.
He was also curious about the number of repeat orders. She highlighted that her repeat orders are 78%.
Candace was curious to know if only there were eczema-based customers interested in her soaps. She answered that it is a mix of both normal-skinned and eczema-based customers. About 60% of her customers are suffering from skin problems.
Cuban then asked about her last year’s sales. She replied that it was about $66K in sales and out of that $38K was her profit.
Lori inquired about her business margins. Kristen highlighted that it costs her $2.38 to make and then she sells it for $11.
Candace was curious to know if she sells the product individually or in a deal. She pointed out that individually a soap sells for $11 and a pack of four sells for $40.
The guest shark also wanted to know about the skin sensitivity market. The owner related that 71% of the population suffers from skin issues and the number is growing day by day.
Kevin asked how a soap can cost $11. She answered in comparison that other skin-sensitive soaps cost around $14 to $15, which makes her product more affordable. She also related emotionally that the soap came out of necessity and passion as she was suffering from severe eczema herself.
He also wanted to know about her customer’s acquisition cost. She pointed out that her average order value is $42.38. The business is able to get a customer for around $5.83.
Shark’s Response and Final Decision
Lori was the first shark out of the deal as she was already working on a similar product.
Cuban and Daymond followed Lori and backed out too as they don’t consider themselves fit for the luxurious industry.
Kevin offered her $75K for 10% equity with a $1 royalty until $500K is paid which drops to $0.20 in perpetuity.
Candace then offered her $75K but for 30% in her company. Kristen then counter-offered her $75K for a 15% equity stake. Candace readily rejected the counteroffer.
The owner then counter-offered Candace for the second time and pitched at $75K for a 20% equity stake. Candace rejected it as well.
Kristen then asked her to consider 25% equity for the third time. Finally, Candace accepted $75K for a 25% equity deal.
Product’s Availability
After getting a deal from Sprinkle cupcake owner, Kristen has been featured in Eco Parent Magazine, and news about her brand is spreading. Her products are now available through online stores like Thirteen Lune, because of Candace and BLK + GRN. We can buy four different scents individually or as a bundle on her website as well.
Conclusion
Kristen proved as a hope for all skin-sensitive people in the world after appearing on Shark Tank. With her product and vibrant personality, she was able to get a deal from Candace on the show. Her journey accelerated after making a deal with the guest shark, leading to the popularity of her grandparent’s legacy.
Hey there, it’s Andaleb Youns. I am a freelance content writer and am currently pursuing a BS in English Language and Literature. I have expertise in writing Blog Posts, social media content, and copywriting. I know how it feels to be a student and still be dependent on parents to fulfill even basic daily needs. This realization became apparent while watching Shark Tank. Although I started watching this show out of boredom, it proved to be an inspirational show. The show made me realize the importance of hard work, being independent, and of having a business of my own. I still look forward to it for entertaining and inspirational content.