Just the Cheese is a beloved snack brand that shot to fame after its appearance on Shark Tank. While it’s been several years since the original episode aired, people are still fascinated with Just the Cheese and their success post-Tank. That’s why we’ve put together this epic guide outlining every detail of their story and answering all the burning questions about what happened to them afterward. So, if you’re a fan of Just the Cheese, or simply interested in learning more about their Shark Tank journey – this guide is for you!
Story of Just the Cheese and Its Creators
Who doesn’t like cheese? It’s the perfect snack for any occasion, and Just the Cheese creators, David Scharfman as well as his parents saw an opportunity in that. In 2017, while David and his wife were out shopping, they bought a baked cheese snack to munch on. After tasting it, David knew that Just the Cheese was a superior product and he made the decision to revive his family’s cheese bar company, Just the Cheese. As a child, David loved the burnt, crispy texture of cheese on his grilled cheese sandwiches, and asked his father to create a snack made from 100% cheese that mimicked this texture.
This led to the creation of Just the Cheese bars in the 1990s, which were a big hit due to their low-carb content, making them an ideal snack for followers of the Atkins Diet craze.
Unfortunately, as the popularity of the Atkins Diet waned, so did the sales of Just the Cheese bars, and the product was eventually discontinued. However, in 2017, David noticed a trend towards keto-friendly snacks and realized that his product was still superior to similar snacks he had tried. He and his wife, Connie, decided to bring Just the Cheese bars back to market.
His dad obliged, and the family-owned business, Specialty Cheese Company, which is based in Wisconsin, produced and sold the snack successfully for years. At the height of the Atkins Diet’s popularity, the snack was in high demand. However, the brand lost its sheen as David grew up and moved away to the East Coast to work as a consultant.
Thanks to Connie’s efforts in managing the company’s Amazon sales and targeting keto-related search terms, Just the Cheese bars quickly gained popularity. These snacks are highly keto-friendly, with only one gram of carbs, zero trans fats, and 75 calories per bar, making them an ideal snack for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Additionally, Just the Cheese bars and minis are made from 100% crispy cheese, with no added fillers or preservatives.
By mid-2018, the company was selling over 100 boxes of Just the Cheese bars per day. Today, the company has a strong online presence and continues to grow. They source three-quarters of their cheese from local dairy farmers, supporting local communities and sustainable agriculture practices. Just the Cheese bars are also gluten-free, appealing to a wider audience.
However, David wanted to share the word about his business through the whole NA, and to achieve that he applied to the show Shark Tank. Let’s recap how it went for him! [1] [2]
Just the Cheese at Shark Tank Pitch
David has come to Shark Tank seeking a $ 500,000 investment for a mere 5% stake in his company. During his presentation, he shares the inspiring story of how his family brought Just the Cheese back to life after it had faded away for years. As he hands out samples of his crispy cheese snack to the Sharks, Lori recognizes the product from Amazon, and they all enjoy its delicious taste.
What really catches the Sharks’ attention are the impressive sales figures: $ 3.5 million in 2018 and $ 3.7 million in just four months of 2019. David explains that the business has been entirely self-funded with a $ 1 million investment from his family.
However, the Sharks note that the margins are thin, with each two-pack costing $ 0.95 and selling for $ 1.27 per bar. Kevin offers $ 500,000 for 5% of the company but with a 20-cent royalty per bar in perpetuity. Lori proposes a similar offer of $ 500,000 for 5%, but with a 15-cent royalty per bar until she recoups $ 750,000. On the other hand, Mark offers $ 500,000 for 15% equity.
Despite the attractive offers, David turns down all three. He is concerned that the royalties would negatively impact his cash flow, and he is unwavering in his decision not to give away more than 5% of his company. David’s determination to maintain control over his company demonstrates his belief in the success of Just the Cheese and his commitment to its growth. [2]
Just the Cheese After the Show
Not all pitches appearing at Shark Tank end with a deal and that’s inevitable. However not getting a deal with a shark, doesn’t mean it’s all over. David did get the opportunity to showcase his product and a chance of gaining exposure from millions of potential customers. An appearance on Live TV did wonders to help him with exposure, however, it didn’t stop there.
With each passing year, this business has expanded its reach and strengthened its retail distribution network. Now, Just the Cheese can be found on the shelves of nearly every major grocery chain, as well as on Amazon and in Target stores. Its wide availability has contributed to the brand’s continued growth and success.
As of September 2022, Just the Cheese is still going strong, generating an impressive $ 4 million in annual revenue. This is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and innovation, as well as its ability to adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences. With its continued success, Just the Cheese is poised for even greater growth and expansion in the years to come.
The company also has a decent social media presence to share even more words about its products and success. With over 8,000 followers on Instagram and 3,500 on Facebook, it’s safe to say that Just the Cheese has made a name for itself in its industry. What began as a family-run business more than two decades ago is now one of the most recognizable brands in its niche!
The social media aren’t frequently updated, however, with new content often posted every couple of months. However, it does have a loyal and growing base of fans who engage with the brand on a regular basis. The account also runs occasional giveaways and promotions to reward its most dedicated followers.
This shows us that with a strong work ethic and dedication, anything is possible. David Scharfman’s story serves as an example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and faith in oneself. He has taken Just the Cheese to levels he never could have imagined without the help of Shark Tank, and we cannot wait to see what lies ahead for his business! [2] [3] [4] [5]
Just the Cheese Net Worth
Based on the information provided, it appears that Just the Cheese is currently valued at around $ 3 million. This valuation was likely determined through a combination of factors, such as the company’s financial performance, market trends, and potential for future growth.
However, it’s worth noting that valuations can fluctuate over time based on various factors, such as changes in the market or the company’s financial performance. Therefore, it’s possible that the value of Just the Cheese may have changed since the information provided in the article. [6]
FAQ
1. Did Just the Cheese get a Shark Tank deal?
After presenting their business on Shark Tank, Just the Cheese did not accept any of the offers made by the Sharks. David Scharfman, the owner, declined all three offers made by Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, and Mark Cuban.
Kevin offered $ 500,000 for 5% equity with a 20-cent royalty per bar in perpetuity, Lori offered $ 500,000 for 5% equity with a 15-cent royalty per bar until she recoups $ 750,000, and Mark offered $ 500,000 for 15% equity. However, Scharfman was not willing to give away more than 5% of his company or accept any royalties as he felt it would hurt his cash flow.
Despite not getting a deal on Shark Tank, Just the Cheese has continued to experience significant growth and success. Their products are now available on Amazon and in thousands of stores nationwide, including major grocery chains and Target stores.
2. What is Just the Cheese?
Just the Cheese is a Wisconsin-based snack company that produces crunchy cheese snacks in bar and mini bite-sized crisps form. The snack is made of 100% natural cheese and has no additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors. The product was initially created by David Scharfman’s father several years ago, but it faded away over time.
In 2017, David and his wife stumbled upon a baked cheese snack while shopping, and they realized that his father’s creation was a better product.
They moved back to Wisconsin to re-start the business under the Specialty Cheese Company, which is owned by the Scharfman family.
Just the Cheese has gained popularity over the years and is now widely available on Amazon and at thousands of stores nationwide, including major grocery chains and Target stores. The snack comes in five flavors: White Cheddar, Wisconsin Cheddar, Grilled Cheese, Garlic and Chive, and Jalapeno.
3. Who is the owner of Just the Cheese?
The owner of Just the Cheese is David Scharfman, a Wisconsin native and cheese enthusiast. Just the Cheese is actually a family business, with David’s father having originally created the snack many years ago. David, who always loved the crispy inside of his grilled cheese sandwiches, challenged his father to create a snack based on this idea, and thus the original Just the Cheese was born.
David and his wife later moved back to Wisconsin from the East Coast and resurrected the business, which has since grown to become a widely available snack sold on Amazon and in thousands of stores nationwide. The company also serves as a co-packer for Slim Fast Snack Crisps.
Despite offers from Sharks on the TV show Shark Tank, David has remained the sole owner of the company, unwilling to give up more than 5% equity or agree to royalty payments that he felt would hurt his cash flow. Under his leadership, Just the Cheese continues to thrive and expand, with an annual revenue of $ 4 million as of September 2022.
4. Is Just the Cheese still in business?
Yes, Just the Cheese is still in business. In fact, according to the information provided in previous questions, the company was still running and earning $ 4 million in annual revenue as of September 2022. Additionally, the product was widely available on Amazon and at thousands of stores nationwide, including major grocery chains.
It’s important to note that business conditions can change rapidly, especially in the fast-paced world of snack foods and retail distribution. However, based on the information available, it appears that Just the Cheese has been successful in maintaining its presence in the market and continuing to grow its customer base.
5. What is just the cheese worth?
Just the Cheese, founded by David Scharfman, has become one of the most successful products to be featured on Shark Tank. After appearing on the show, Just the Cheese quickly earned a loyal base of fans who are passionate about its cheesy snacks and mission to provide healthy, real food snacks to people everywhere. The success of Just the Cheese has resulted in an estimated net worth of over $ 3+ million for its founder David Scharfman.
Useful Video: The Sharks Offer Entrepreneur Cheesy Deals for Just The Cheese
Conclusion
The story of Just the Cheese is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep love of all things cheesy. What started as a childhood craving for crispy grilled cheese sandwiches has turned into a thriving business with a loyal following and widespread retail distribution.
Through their unwavering dedication to quality and their willingness to take risks and adapt to changing market trends, the Scharfman family has built a brand that stands out in the crowded snack food industry. By resurrecting a beloved product from the past and reimagining it for modern consumers, Just the Cheese has captured the hearts and taste buds of snack enthusiasts across the country.
Their success has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by their appearances on Shark Tank and their ongoing partnership with Slim Fast. And with their continued growth and expansion, it’s clear that Just the Cheese has a bright future ahead.
But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the Just the Cheese journey is the fact that it’s a true family business, built on a foundation of hard work, passion, and a shared love of cheese. From David’s childhood inspiration to his father’s skillful execution to the whole family’s dedication to growing the business, Just the Cheese is a testament to the power of family and the value of pursuing your dreams.
As they continue to innovate and grow, one thing is for sure: Just the Cheese will always stay true to its roots, delivering delicious, crispy, cheesy goodness to snack lovers everywhere.
References:
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/just-the-cheese-grilled-cheese-bars/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/just-the-cheese/
- https://www.justthecheese.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/crunchyjtc/
- https://www.facebook.com/crunchyJTC/
- https://thenewspocket.com/just-the-cheese-net-worth/