Embarking on the spicy journey from the Shark Tank stage to the marketplace, Joyce’s Lulu Bang carved its flavorful niche in the culinary landscape. The Beard sisters, Kelly and Jorrae, presented their delectable line of barbecue sauces with a dash of cheeky humor, seeking a Shark’s embrace. Although the Sharks didn’t bite, the post-Shark Tank saga of Lulu Bang reveals a tale of resilience and culinary creativity.
From Walmart shelves to online challenges, the brand navigated the competitive sauce industry. This article unfolds the aftertaste of Lulu Bang’s Shark Tank experience, exploring how the Beards turned sauce into a sizzling success.
What Is Lulu Bang:
Crafted with fresh ingredients and boasting the absence of preservatives or artificial flavors, it offers a delightful blend of tamarind, chili pepper, garlic, and fish sauce. This combination creates a deliciously distinctive and slightly spicy flavor that sets it apart in the world of condiments.
The sauce’s journey from the kitchen to the Shark Tank stage was marked by accolades, including the prestigious Sofi Award from the Specialty Food Association. This recognition speaks to the quality and uniqueness of Joyce’s LuLu Bang, setting it apart in a competitive market.
If you’re looking to elevate your meals, Joyce’s LuLu Bang Sauce provides a delicious way to do so. Whether it’s chicken, fish, vegetables, or more, the versatility of this sauce shines through. It promises to add a zing to your dishes, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Pros:
Unique Flavors
One of the standout features of Lulu Bang sauces is their unique flavor profiles. The BBQ Fusion offers a sweet and smoky classic barbeque flavor, while the Asian Persuasion presents a tangy twist with a hint of spice. The It’s Just HOT sauce lives up to its name with a fiery kick, and the Bourbon Marinade brings a rich and savory taste.
Versatility
The sauces are not just limited to BBQ, they can be used as marinades, dipping sauces, or even as a condiment. Their versatility makes them a great addition to any kitchen.
Accessibility
Despite initial doubts expressed by Kevin O’Leary about Lulu Bang’s potential to become a large online business, the company has proven him wrong. Their sauces are available online and can be shipped directly to consumers. They are also stocked in some favorite stores throughout the U.S. [3].
Cons:
Lack of Market Differentiation
While Lulu Bang sauces are flavorful and versatile, they operate in a highly competitive market. The BBQ sauce industry is saturated with various brands offering similar products. This could potentially limit their growth and market share.
Pricing
At $ 3.98 per bottle at Walmart8, some might consider Lulu Bang sauces slightly pricey compared to other brands in the market. The higher price point could deter budget-conscious consumers.
Who May Benefit From Using?
Food Enthusiasts and Home Cooks:
- Flavor Aficionados: Individuals who appreciate bold and unique flavor profiles will find joy in experimenting with Joyce’s LuLu Bang. Its combination of tamarind, chili pepper, garlic, and fish sauce offers a distinctive taste that can elevate a wide range of dishes;
- Home Cooks: For those who enjoy preparing meals at home, Joyce’s LuLu Bang provides an easy way to add a gourmet touch to everyday recipes. Its versatility makes it suitable for various cuisines and dishes, allowing home cooks to get creative in the kitchen;
Health-Conscious Consumers:
- All-Natural Seekers: Individuals who prioritize natural and wholesome ingredients in their diet will appreciate Joyce’s LuLu Bang. The sauce is crafted with all-natural ingredients and is free of preservatives, making it a healthier option compared to some other commercially available sauces;
- Dietary Preferences: With options that are gluten-free and vegan, Joyce’s LuLu Bang accommodates individuals with specific dietary preferences, expanding its appeal to a broader audience [4];
Fans of Award-Winning Products:
Those who value prestigious awards in the culinary world will be drawn to Joyce’s LuLu Bang, which has received recognition with the sofi™ Award from the Specialty Food Association. This accolade serves as a mark of quality and excellence.
Culinary Adventurers:
Individuals who enjoy experimenting with different flavors and cuisines will appreciate the versatility of Joyce’s LuLu Bang. Whether it’s marinating, grilling, dipping, or saucing, the varied flavors cater to a wide range of culinary applications.
Supporters of Small Businesses:
Those who enjoy supporting small and independent businesses will find value in choosing Joyce’s LuLu Bang. The brand represents the entrepreneurial spirit of the Beard sisters and their dedication to bringing a family recipe to the market.
People Seeking Unique Gifts:
Joyce’s LuLu Bang, with its award-winning status and unique flavor offerings, makes for an excellent gourmet gift. Whether for a foodie friend, a hostess gift, or a special occasion, the sauce’s distinctive packaging and story add a thoughtful touch to gifting.
Individuals Exploring Cultural Cuisine:
Those interested in exploring and incorporating diverse cultural flavors into their meals will find Joyce’s LuLu Bang appealing. The sauce’s blend of ingredients reflects a fusion of tastes that can complement a variety of global cuisines.
About the Founders Of Lulu Bang
The inception of their saucy venture traces back to a culinary conundrum faced by the younger Beard sister, whose expertise in catering left her dissatisfied with the sauce options available in stores. Fueled by this dissatisfaction, the decision to concoct her sauce proved to be a triumph when it garnered praise from friends and family, unveiling a promising business opportunity.
Anchored in a familial love for cooking inherited from their mother, Joyce’s Lulu Bang stood as a testament to kinship right from its inception. The nomenclature of their enterprise served as a dual tribute to their late mother, Joyce, and their departed brother, Mike — affectionately known as Lulu Bang, a soul lost tragically in a carjacking incident.
Although Lulu Bang carried a poignant narrative, the denizens of the Shark Tank seemed less than enthusiastic about intertwining their destinies with this familial tale.
The Pitch Of Lulu Bang At Shark Tank
Three enterprising women took center stage, ready to make waves in the culinary world, introducing themselves as the proprietors of Joyce’s Lulu Bang. Their ask was $ 150,000 for a 10% stake in their flavorful venture. Kelly, the torchbearer of the presentation, kicked things off with a playful assertion that, much like her, the Sharks loved to “bang” [6].
Jorrae joined the banter, suggesting a penchant for “banging” throughout the day, and Joyce cheekily predicted that, by the end, the Sharks would be eager to “bang everything.” The playful innuendo set the tone for their pitch, concluding with an invitation for the Sharks to dive into the world of Joyce’s Lulu Bang.
Kelly delved into the essence of their sauces, boasting about the infusion of spices and flavors destined to revolutionize dining habits. With names like “It’s Just Hot” or “Asian Persuasion,” the sisters claimed their sauces were versatile, enhancing everything from seafood and chicken to steak, potatoes, and rice. Their audacious statement: they could “bang” anything.
The Sharks, thoroughly amused, chanted “bang that thang!” in response. Introducing Kelly’s daughter added an unexpected twist, with the Sharks expressing disbelief at her youthful appearance. However, the focus swiftly shifted to the samples of various dishes, each adorned with different Lulu Bang sauces, presented to the Sharks for a taste test.
Amidst laughter, the Sharks expressed genuine appreciation for the sauces. Kevin, ever the pragmatic Shark, acknowledged the quality of Joyce’s Lulu Bang but probed into the challenges of the fiercely competitive barbecue sauce industry. The Beards revealed their journey, starting from catering and restaurant ventures, bottling the praised sauce on a small scale. Their breakthrough came with a regional deal from Walmart, placing Joyce’s Lulu Bang in 170 stores. However, the online market posed challenges, and Kevin questioned the scalability of the business with a mere $ 150,000 investment.
As Kevin bowed out, expressing skepticism about the potential online success of a product with substantial weight, Lori challenged his viewpoint, citing her own experience with unconventional online products. Daymond, drawing from his experience in a similar industry, opted out, emphasizing the intricacies of selling sauces online. Robert, while commending their progress, felt the branding was confusing and passed on the opportunity. Lori, appreciative of their journey but seeking uniqueness, also bowed out [7].
Mark, while praising their accomplishments, found the timeline mismatched for his investment goals. Despite Mark’s departure, Kelly believed in the potential for Joyce’s Lulu Bang to become a household name. In the aftermath, Kevin continued his skepticism, prompting a spirited debate among the remaining Sharks. Mark defended the sisters, stating that while it might not be an investable business, they could turn it into a lucrative venture for themselves.
In their exit interview, Kelly remained optimistic, viewing their Shark Tank experience as a stepping stone toward making Joyce’s Lulu Bang a household sensation [8]. Back in the Tank, the Sharks continued to debate, with Kevin’s skepticism contrasting with Mark’s more optimistic outlook. Lori countered Kevin, highlighting their success with Walmart as a testament to their achievement. The episode concluded with a clash of opinions, underscoring the varied perspectives within the entrepreneurial realm.
Lulu Bang After The Shark Tank
Despite departing the Shark Tank without a single offer or inkling of a deal, Lulu Bang left an indelible impression that sparked debates among the sharks long after the saucy pitch concluded. O’Leary, ever the pragmatic voice, voiced reservations among his fellow sharks, asserting that the competitive barbecue sauce industry might be an inferno where enterprises like Lulu Bang are “born in hell”.
During their initial Shark Tank appearance, Lulu Bang’s sauces were priced at $ 3.99 per jar. However, a visit to their current website reveals a revised pricing strategy. While a bundle of two sauces is listed at $ 15.98 ($ 7.99 per jar), frequent discounts often reduce the price to $ 10. This indicates a price adjustment since their television debut, showcasing an adaptation to market dynamics.
The Beards asserted during the show that negotiations were underway with ShopRite, a claim that has materialized into reality. Lulu Bang’s sauces are now available not only in ShopRite stores across New Jersey and Pennsylvania but also in Walmart outlets spanning nine states. This expanded retail presence signifies a broader market reach and, potentially, increased sales.
Despite these changes in distribution and pricing, Lulu Bang’s overall branding has remained relatively consistent since its Shark Tank debut. The entrepreneurs have not noticeably altered their approach to shipping, leaving questions about how they address potential challenges in online sales. With a limited social media presence, updates on whether new sauces will join the existing lineup remain elusive.
Further diversifying their business portfolio, the Beards launched a catering venture named after their mother, Joyce. This catering service caters to a range of events, including repasts, with prices averaging around $ 12.50 per plate depending on the occasion. The menu, as displayed on their website, promises an array of Lulu Bang-infused dishes, including wings, jerk chicken, and short ribs.
As fans eagerly await Lulu Bang’s next chapter, the Beard sisters have not merely kept their business afloat for almost six years — they’ve expanded it. Despite the absence of a Shark in their business waters, the Beard sisters have showcased resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial prowess, turning Lulu Bang into a multifaceted venture that extends beyond the confines of barbecue sauce sales.
The Net Worth Of Lulu Bang
Despite the Sharks’ initial concerns about the high costs and laborious effort required to grow the business, Lulu Bang has succeeded in proving its profitability. Even though they could not secure an investment from the Sharks, the company has managed to thrive and increase its value threefold.
This success may be attributed to the unique flavors and versatility of their sauces, as well as their ability to establish an online presence. Despite Kevin O’Leary’s skepticism about the potential for Lulu Bang to become a large online business, the company has managed to defy expectations and maintain a strong online presence.
Alternatives To Lulu Bang:
1) Soy Vay Veri Veri Teriyaki:
Known for its savory and slightly sweet taste, Soy Vay’s Veri Veri Teriyaki sauce is a popular choice for marinating, grilling, or stir-frying. It combines soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful experience.
Why Consider: If you enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors, especially in Asian-inspired dishes, Soy Vay Veri Veri Teriyaki offers a delicious alternative [12].
2) Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce:
A classic in the hot sauce category, Frank’s RedHot Original is known for its tangy and spicy kick. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used as a condiment or an ingredient in various recipes.
Why Consider: If you’re a fan of spicy sauces and enjoy the tangy flavor of cayenne pepper, Frank’s RedHot provides a well-established option.
3) Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce:
Sweet Baby Ray’s is a widely recognized brand offering a range of barbecue sauces, known for their sweet and smoky flavor profiles. Options include Honey Barbecue, Hickory & Brown Sugar, and more.
Why Consider: For those who prefer a classic barbecue taste with a balance of sweetness and smokiness, Sweet Baby Ray’s provides a variety of options to suit different preferences.
4) Cholula Original Hot Sauce:
Cholula is a Mexican hot sauce known for its flavorful blend of arbol and piquin peppers. It adds a mild heat with a hint of tanginess, making it a versatile choice for various dishes.
Why Consider: If you enjoy hot sauces with a balanced heat level and a touch of acidity, Cholula Original Hot Sauce offers a unique flavor profile.
5) Stubb’s Original Bar-B-Q Sauce:
Stubb’s Original Bar-B-Q Sauce is known for its rich, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness. It’s a barbecue sauce that works well with grilled meats and other dishes.
Why Consider: For those who appreciate a robust and smoky barbecue sauce, Stubb’s Original provides a distinctive flavor that complements a range of grilled dishes.
6) Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil-Based Dressings:
Primal Kitchen offers a line of dressings and marinades made with avocado oil. Options include Balsamic Vinaigrette, Caesar, and Sesame Ginger, providing healthier alternatives with quality ingredients.
Why Consider: If you’re looking for dressings or marinades with avocado oil as a base and a focus on clean, high-quality ingredients, Primal Kitchen offers a range of options.
7) Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend:
While not a sauce, this seasoning blend from Trader Joe’s has gained popularity for its versatile use. It includes sesame seeds, sea salt, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds.
Why Consider: If you’re seeking a unique seasoning to add flavor to a variety of dishes, Everything But The Bagel seasoning can be sprinkled on everything from salads to roasted vegetables.
FAQ:
- What makes the LuLu Bang sauce different from other gourmet sauces?
LuLu Bang sauces stand out due to their unique flavor profiles and versatility. They can be used as marinades, condiments, or cooking sauces, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen. Furthermore, they are made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a gourmet taste.
- Are these sauces sweet?
While some of Lulu Bang’s sauces have a hint of sweetness, they are not overly sweet. They offer a balance of flavors that include sweet, spicy, and savory notes.
- Are any of the sauces gluten-free?
Yes, some of Lulu Bang’s sauces are gluten-free. However, it’s always recommended to check the product label or the company’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- What are the ingredients in Lulu Bang’s sauces?
The ingredients vary depending on the specific sauce. Generally, they include a blend of spices, vinegar, sugar, and other ingredients. For a detailed list of ingredients, it’s best to refer to the product label or the company’s website.
- What is the shelf life of LuLu Bang sauces?
The shelf life of LuLu Bang sauces typically ranges from 12-24 months unopened. After opening, it’s recommended to consume within a certain period (usually a few weeks to a month) and to store in the refrigerator.
- Do LuLu Bang sauces need to be refrigerated?
Yes, after opening, LuLu Bang sauces should be refrigerated to maintain their freshness and quality.
- What was the biggest bust on Shark Tank?
While there have been many successful businesses on Shark Tank, there have also been some that didn’t fare as well. One notable example is the Ionic Ear, a device that was to be surgically implanted into the user’s ear for hands-free phone operation. This pitch did not receive any investment from the Sharks.
- Is KFC sauce a thing?
Yes, KFC has several signature sauces, including their Finger Lickin’ Good Sauce, Honey BBQ Sauce, and others. These sauces are used to complement their chicken dishes.
Useful Video: The Sharks Have An EXPLOSIVE Fight About Lulu Bang BBQ
References:
- https://www.foodrepublic.com/1338526/lulu-bang-shark-tank-now/
- https://www.mashed.com/1041467/what-happened-to-lulu-bang-after-shark-tank/
- https://sharktankrecap.com/lulu-bang-update-shark-tank-season-8/
- https://www.thedailymeal.com/1184057/where-is-lulu-bang-from-shark-tank-today/
- https://seoaves.com/joyces-lulu-bang-shark-tank-update/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/lulu-bang/
- https://biznewske.com/what-happened-to-joyces-lulu-bang-after-shark-tank/
- https://joyceslulubang.com/pages/f-a-q
- https://geeksaroundglobe.com/joyces-lulu-bang-net-worth-update-before-after-shark-tank/
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/is-joyce-s-lulu-bang-still-in-business/
- https://sharktanktales.com/joyces-lulu-bang-shark-tank-update/
- https://gazettereview.com/2017/11/joyces-lulu-bang-update-happened-shark-tank/
