SweetKiwi (or just Sweetkiwi), a frozen yogurt brand known for its unique flavors and health-conscious approach, made waves when it debuted on the hit television show, Shark Tank. Since then, the brand has embarked on an exciting journey, navigating the challenges of the competitive dessert market while continuing to uphold its commitment to quality and innovation.
This article delves into what happened to SweetKiwi after its Shark Tank appearance, exploring its growth, struggles, successes, and the impact of the exposure from the show on its business trajectory. Join us as we unravel SweetKiwi’s post-Shark Tank story.
What Is Sweetkiwi?
SweetKiwi Ingredients
SweetKiwi is known for its innovative frozen desserts, primarily its Whipped Greek Yogurt. It’s committed to using premium, natural ingredients to create healthy, low-calorie treats that also support a healthy gut.
The Cookies & Cream flavor is made with real ingredients, adding to the authentic taste of the yogurt. The Vanilla Bean flavor, besides the standard ingredients, likely includes vanilla bean for flavor.
The Chocolate Hazelnut flavor of SweetKiwi’s Whipped Greek Yogurt is also made with nonfat Greek yogurt and live and active cultures, with the addition of chocolate and hazelnut for flavor.
Despite being a dessert, SweetKiwi’s yogurts are under 320 calories, making them a healthier alternative to traditional ice creams and desserts.
Pros:
The first thing that stands out about Sweetkiwi is its commitment to health. Unlike many other frozen yogurt brands that are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients, Sweetkiwi takes a different approach. Their products are made with real milk and natural sugars, resulting in a dessert that is not only delicious but also nutritious. This is a major pro for health-conscious consumers who are always on the lookout for guilt-free treats.
Another advantage of Sweetkiwi is its range of flavors. From classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic options like hibiscus and mango, there’s something for everyone. The brand continuously experiments with new flavors, keeping its offerings fresh and exciting. This innovative approach sets them apart from other frozen yogurt brands that stick to the same old flavors.
In terms of packaging, Sweetkiwi scores high marks. Their products come in attractive, eco-friendly containers that are perfect for on-the-go snacking. The compact size also makes it easy to control portion sizes, which is another plus for those watching their calorie intake.
The customer service at Sweetkiwi is also worth mentioning. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist customers with their queries. Whether you need help choosing a flavor or have a question about the ingredients, you can count on the Sweetkiwi team to provide prompt and helpful service.
Cons:
One potential downside is the price. While the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost, some customers may find Sweetkiwi’s products a bit pricey compared to other frozen yogurt options. This could be a deterrent for those on a tight budget.
Another potential con is the availability. As of now, Sweetkiwi’s products are only available in select locations and online. While this exclusivity adds to the brand’s appeal, it can also be inconvenient for customers who do not live near a Sweetkiwi outlet or do not have access to online shopping.
Lastly, while many people enjoy the unique flavors offered by Sweetkiwi, they may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Those who prefer traditional flavors might find some of Sweetkiwi’s offerings a bit too adventurous. It would be great to see more classic options on their menu [3].
Who May Benefit From Using SweetKiwi?
SweetKiwi may benefit a wide range of individuals, including:
- Health-conscious consumers: SweetKiwi is made with natural ingredients and real milk, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frozen yogurt. Those who are conscious about their health and diet would appreciate this attribute;
- Dessert lovers looking for unique flavors: SweetKiwi offers an array of innovative flavors, which can be a delightful surprise for those who enjoy exploring new taste profiles;
- People with dietary restrictions: As SweetKiwi uses natural ingredients, people with certain dietary restrictions may find this product suitable. However, it’s always recommended to check the specific ingredients and nutritional information to ensure it aligns with individual dietary needs;
- Eco-conscious consumers: SweetKiwi’s eco-friendly packaging aligns with the values of consumers who prioritize environmental sustainability;
- Busy individuals: The convenient packaging of SweetKiwi products makes it easy for on-the-go consumption, which can be a boon for busy individuals seeking a quick, healthy snack [4];
Remember, while SweetKiwi offers benefits to a variety of consumers, individual preferences and dietary needs can vary. It’s always best to review product details thoroughly to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
What Do Users Say About SweetKiwi Yogurts?
User reviews for SweetKiwi yogurts vary, with some people enjoying the product while others have criticisms.
Here are some highlights from different sources:
- A blogger on Froyo Girl found the taste of SweetKiwi’s Whipped Greek Froyo to be high in protein and a bit chalky. They also mentioned that the sweetness was somewhat unusual;
- A Yelp review criticized SweetKiwi Frozen Yogurt for having too many carbs and added sugar, stating it wouldn’t be helpful for those trying to lose weight;
- On a more positive note, another blogger, Sisi Yemmie, praised SweetKiwi for being “good clean eating” and considered it better than ice cream;
- On TripAdvisor, Sweet Kiwi Frozen Yogurt in Manchester received a 4.5 out of 5 rating, indicating overall positive reviews from customers;
- A video review on YouTube by @blackmomhealing highlighted the mouthwatering appeal of SweetKiwi’s whipped Greek frozen yogurt;
- Another TripAdvisor review described the Sweet Kiwi Frozen Yogurt experience as “nice and healthy,” and included positive comments about the Lekki, Nigeria location;
- A review on SweetKiwi’s website praised the flavor of the Whipped Greek Yogurt and appreciated its low-calorie content and absence of artificial ingredients [5];
About the Founders Of Sweetkiwi
Ehime’s journey led her to Citigroup, where she took on the role of a “Bankruptcy Referral Litigation Specialist IYour Way Foods” for a substantial four-year stint. Presently, her undivided focus is dedicated to nurturing and growing her Sweetkiwi endeavor.
Michael Akindele, both the director and the mastermind behind Sweetkiwi, also wears the hat of the founder at Uncharted Ventures. Simultaneously, he takes on the role of a UX lead at Tata Consultancy Services.
Ehime’s journey into the realm of Sweetkiwi commenced in Nigeria, where she discerned the vast potential of her culinary vision. From the inception of her enterprise, she orchestrated numerous promotional events featuring complimentary samples of her luscious yogurt.
An overwhelmingly positive response from these tastings inspired Ehime to transition her product into the market. Beyond delivering premium yogurt, she ardently champions her community’s well-being.
Ehime has established a collaboration with Black Girl Ventures and has pledged to allocate 1% of her profits for support initiatives. Union Kitchen invested a sum of $ 20,000 in the company during a seed round on August 22, 2018.
Media reports have hinted at Ehime’s intentions to expand her product’s reach to Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, marking an exciting new chapter in the Sweetkiwi saga.
The Pitch Of Sweetkiwi At Shark Tank
Upon entering the Shark Tank arena, both Ehime and Michael presented their proposition, seeking $ 250,000 in exchange for a 5% ownership stake in their venture, SweetKiwi [8]. They extended an invitation for the sharks to savor their delectable Greek Yogurt, and it was Robert who particularly relished the Raspberry Flavored Yogurts.
Ehime’s journey commenced in Nigeria, where she birthed this enterprise, nurturing it to become the most substantial Frozen Yogurt Company on the entire African continent. The cumulative revenue amassed by this business over its existence amounts to $ 2 million, with its products gracing the shelves of more than 1700 outlets, including Whole Foods and Walmart, throughout the United States.
In the current year, 2022, SweetKiwi has triumphed with sales totaling $ 650,000, while they anticipate a year-end projection ranging from $ 1.2 to $ 1.4 million. Their accomplishments were further embellished this month with the coveted approval from Kroger’s franchise. Kevin O’Leary deemed securing a spot in Kroger’s stores as a formidable challenge and thus offered $ 250,000 for a 20% share in the enterprise. Daymond John, though enamored with the product, regrettably abstained due to misalignment with his business interests.
Subsequently, Kevin O’Leary made his exit, leaving the conversation between the founder and Mark Cuban. Robert Herjavec then extended a parallel proposition of $ 250,000 for a 20% stake. Michael seized the moment, inquiring about the possibility of a counteroffer, to which Robert responded incredulously, given the strength of his initial pitch.
Undaunted, Michael proposed an alternative: $ 250,000 for a 7.1% ownership stake, complemented by 5% advisory shares [9]. In response, Robert countered with his own offer: $ 250,000 for a 16% equity stake. After thoughtful consideration, the founder concurred with Robert’s proposal.
In the end, a deal was struck, with Robert committing to invest $ 250,000 in SweetKiwi in exchange for a 16% ownership stake, marking a new chapter in the SweetKiwi journey.
Sweetkiwi After The Shark Tank
Ehime initiated this venture in Nigeria, recognizing its immense potential. Right from its inception, she actively engaged in various events, generously offering samples of her yogurt to the public. In 2019, SweetKiwi made a significant transition to the United States, marking the beginning of an impressive journey. Through a combination of direct marketing and social media strategies, Ehime effectively crafted her brand’s identity and garnered widespread exposure. Word about the brand spread far and wide, even drawing approximately $ 200,000 in contributions from the Black Lives Matter movement.
Ehime’s commitment to social causes is commendable; she donates 1% of her earnings to charity as part of her partnership with Black Girl Ventures. In a pivotal moment on August 22, 2018, Union Kitchen injected $ 20,000 into the business during a seed round, providing the essential boost needed to kickstart sales [10].
SweetKiwi’s products are now available in over 1,700 locations nationwide, gracing the shelves of prominent retailers such as Whole Foods, Walmart, and Kroger. Consumers can conveniently purchase SweetKiwi products through the website or at select retail outlets, either in cases of 4 or 6 pints.
Excitingly, Ehime has her sights set on the future, with plans to introduce and test new products in the pipeline. The ascent of SweetKiwi to the upper echelons of the market is a delight to behold, and there is no doubt that the company is poised for continued success in the years ahead.
Despite their recent appearance on television, Ehime and Michael are optimistic that the exposure will translate into a significant surge in orders. They have ambitious plans to expand SweetKiwi’s presence into the United Kingdom, Canada, and Mexico. The precise timeline for achieving these milestones remains uncertain, but the “Shark Tank effect” has the potential to work wonders.
For those looking to savor their gut-friendly delights, SweetKiwi’s products are readily available on their website. They have already established a presence in more than 1,700 retail outlets across the United States, including renowned stores like Kroger, Walmart, and Whole Foods. As a special treat for March 2023, the company is extending a generous 20% discount to Shark Tank viewers.
Their frozen dessert offerings have garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 stars based on 573 Google reviews, attesting to SweetKiwi’s thriving status. The company is poised for a breakthrough year in 2023, with expectations of achieving record-breaking sales. As it stands, SweetKiwi is estimated to be valued at around $ 4 million, a testament to the brand’s remarkable growth and potential.
The Net Worth Of Sweetkiwi
Certain media outlets have reported that the worldwide frozen yogurt market’s dimensions in 2020 amounted to $ 1.63 billion. It is prognosticated that this industry will burgeon to $ 2.14 billion by the year 2028.
From the outset of their entrepreneurial journey, Ehime and her spouse have dedicated themselves to fostering this enterprise. They have been steering this enterprise with remarkable proficiency. You can find this product in major retail chains across the United States.
Ehime and her company have garnered significant attention in various media publications, such as Black Entrepreneur, YNaija, Georgetowner, and more.
The present corporate headquarters of this establishment is located in Washington, District of Columbia. The company currently maintains a workforce numbering between 11 and 50 employees.
Alternatives To Sweetkiwi:
- Free Soul: Free Soul may offer similar frozen yogurt or other dessert options that could serve as an alternative to SweetKiwi;
- Swiss Cheese: Similarly, Swiss Cheese is listed as a possible competitor to SweetKiwi;
- Woodfire Bakery: Though not a direct competitor in the frozen yogurt market, Woodfire Bakery could offer a range of baked goods that can serve as a sweet treat alternative to frozen yogurt. The bakery might offer a variety of artisan breads, pastries, and other baked goods that cater to different dietary needs and preferences;
In addition to these brands, you may try the products of such frozen yogurt brands as Halo Top, Enlightened, and So Delicious Dairy Free, all of which offer a range of flavors and cater to various dietary restrictions [12].
Remember, when choosing an alternative to SweetKiwi, it’s important to consider your individual dietary needs and preferences. Always check the nutritional information and ingredient list of any product before consumption.
FAQ:
- Is Sweetkiwi still in business?
Yes, SweetKiwi is still in business as of October 2023. The company has been thriving and had more than $ 1.1 million in sales in 2023.
- Did Sweetkiwi get a deal?
Yes, SweetKiwi landed a deal on Shark Tank.
- Who is the owner of Sweetkiwi?
SweetKiwi was founded by Ehime Eigbe.
- Is Sweetkiwi yogurt healthy?
Consumers should always check the nutritional information and ingredient list to ensure a product aligns with their dietary needs.
- What are the ingredients in Sweetkiwi frozen yogurt?
It’s described as a whipped Greek yogurt that’s packed with probiotics and superfoods.
- What is Sweetkiwi’s revenue?
SweetKiwi has around $ 5 million in annual revenue.
- When was Sweetkiwi on Shark Tank?
SweetKiwi appeared on Shark Tank in 2023.
- Is Sweetkiwi frozen?
Yes, SweetKiwi is a brand of frozen yogurt.
- Is Sweetkiwi frozen yogurt gluten-free?
Yes, it is. Consumers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should always check the product label or contact the company directly for accurate information.
- Is it ok to eat yogurt daily?
Many nutritionists agree that eating yogurt daily can be part of a healthy diet due to its probiotic content and nutritional value. However, consumers should be mindful of added sugars in some yogurts.
- How many calories are in kiwi yogurt?
Their Instagram page mentions that their whipped Greek yogurt is 360 calories or less.
- Can vegans eat frozen yogurt?
Traditional frozen yogurt is made with dairy and would not be suitable for vegans. Nevertheless, there are vegan alternatives available on the market that use plant-based milks. It’s unclear whether SweetKiwi offers a vegan option.
- Is frozen yogurt full of sugar?
Frozen yogurt can contain sugar, but the amount varies by brand and flavor. Some brands, like SweetKiwi, offer lower-sugar options. But, consumers should always check the nutritional information to ensure a product fits within their dietary needs.
Useful Video: Kevin O’Leary Pulls His Offer from Sweetkiwi
References:
- https://www.looper.com/1236240/whatever-happened-to-sweetkiwi-after-shark-tank/
- https://sharktanktalks.com/sweetkiwi-shark-tank-update/
- https://bizzbucket.co/sweet-kiwi-shark-tank-update/
- https://www.thedailymeal.com/1306589/sweetkiwi-shark-tank-today/
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/sweetkiwi/
- https://sharktankrecap.com/sweetkiwi-update-shark-tank-season-14/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/sweetkiwi/
- https://techiegamers.com/sweetkiwi-net-worth/
- https://biznewske.com/sweetkiwi-shark-tank-net-worth/
- https://thecinemaholic.com/sweetkiwi-shark-tank-update-where-are-they-now/
- https://www.sweetkiwi.com/
- https://www.blackdollarmag.com/sweet-kiwi-a-black-owned-frozen-yogurt-brand-strikes-deal-with-robert-herjavec-on-shark-tank/
