In the compelling aftermath of its appearance on Shark Tank, You Smell Soap, pioneered by Megan Cummins, navigated an intriguing trajectory that transcended the television screen. Amidst unanticipated twists in negotiations and strategic decisions, the soap brand’s journey unfolded beyond the confines of the tank.
This article delves into the post-Shark Tank narrative of You Smell Soap, exploring the entrepreneurial endeavors, challenges faced, and pivotal decisions that shaped its course.
From altered deals to unforeseen success, this exploration uncovers the untold chapters of You Smell Soap’s evolution, offering insights into the dynamic world of business beyond the spotlight of the acclaimed reality show.
What Is You Smell Soap:
Also, You Smell Cleaner emerges as a distinctive organic cleanser, introducing vibrant colors that inject new life into an industry that can sometimes feel staid. This premium product brings a lighthearted attitude to the realm of cleansers, breaking away from the norm and providing a refreshing alternative for consumers seeking a unique cleansing experience.
Enriched Formulation:
You Smell Cleaner stands out not only for its vibrant hues but also for its enriching formulation. Packed with Vitamin E and antioxidants, this cleanser goes beyond the surface, offering a nourishing and rejuvenating experience for the skin. The infusion of these beneficial elements sets You Smell Cleaner apart, addressing not only cleanliness but also the overall health and well-being of the skin [2].
Sensory Delight:
The scents offered by You Smell Cleaner, such as Lemon Verbena and Lavender Mint, add an extra layer of sensory delight to the cleansing routine. These carefully crafted fragrances create a harmonious blend of freshness and tranquility, turning the act of cleansing into a moment of indulgence. The aromatic experience offered by You Smell Cleaner elevates it beyond a mere cleansing product, transforming it into a sensorially rich ritual.
Natural Ingredients and Gentle Formulation:
A key strength of You Smell Cleaner lies in its commitment to using all-natural ingredients, including shea butter and olive oil. This conscious choice not only aligns with the current trend of clean beauty but also ensures that the cleanser is both effective and gentle on the skin. The result is a product that not only smells delicious but also contributes to a kind and calming experience, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.
Paper Wipes for On-the-Go Freshness:
Recognizing the dynamic nature of modern lifestyles, You Smell Cleaner extends its offerings beyond the traditional cleanser. The inclusion of paper wipes for refreshing on the go demonstrates a thoughtful approach to meeting the diverse needs of consumers. These wipes, infused with the same delightful scents as the cleanser, provide a quick and convenient solution for maintaining freshness throughout the day [3].
Pros:
- Unique and Invigorating Scents: One of the standout features of You Smell Soap is its wide array of unique and invigorating scents. From the refreshing citrus burst of “Citrus Zest” to the soothing lavender notes in “Lavender Escape,” the company offers a scent for every preference. This diversity allows users to tailor their shower experience, making it a delightful sensory journey;
- Natural Ingredients: You Smell Soap prides itself on using natural ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the skin. The inclusion of ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils contributes to a moisturizing and nourishing formula. This commitment to natural ingredients aligns with the growing consumer demand for clean and eco-friendly personal care products;
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: The brand’s dedication to ethical practices is evident in its commitment to being cruelty-free and vegan. You Smell Soap does not test its products on animals, and the absence of animal-derived ingredients makes it an appealing choice for conscious consumers. This aligns with the contemporary trend of cruelty-free and vegan beauty products;
- Eye-Catching Packaging: The soap’s packaging is visually appealing, featuring vibrant colors and playful designs. The eye-catching labels not only add a decorative element to the product but also make it easily distinguishable on store shelves. This attention to detail in packaging contributes to the overall positive impression of the brand;
- Socially Responsible Initiatives: You Smell Soap has demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility through various initiatives. The company has partnered with charitable organizations, donating a portion of its profits to causes related to environmental conservation and social justice. This philanthropic aspect enhances the brand’s appeal to socially conscious consumers;
Cons:
- Limited Availability: One of the notable drawbacks of You Smell Soap is its limited availability. While the brand has gained recognition through its appearance on Shark Tank and subsequent online sales, its products may not be readily accessible in brick-and-mortar stores. This limitation could hinder potential customers from experiencing the product firsthand before making a purchase.
- Premium Price Point: The quality of ingredients and the brand’s commitment to ethical practices come at a cost. You Smell Soap is positioned at a premium price point compared to conventional mass-market soaps. While some consumers are willing to pay a premium for natural and ethically sourced products, others may find the cost prohibitive, especially in a market where budget-friendly alternatives are abundant;
- Limited Product Range: Although You Smell Soap offers a variety of scents, the overall product range is relatively limited. The brand primarily focuses on bar soaps, and while these are a staple in personal care, consumers accustomed to a broader range of products within a brand may find the selection somewhat restrictive. Expanding the product line to include complementary items like shower gels or lotions could attract a broader customer base;
- Scent Intensity Variation: Some users have reported a variation in the intensity of scents across different soap bars. While one bar may offer a robust and lasting fragrance, another from the same line might have a milder scent. This inconsistency in scent intensity could be a point of concern for consumers who prioritize a consistent sensory experience with each use;
- Fragility of Bar Soap: The nature of bar soap makes it susceptible to breakage, especially during shipping. Some customers have reported receiving You Smell Soap products in less-than-perfect condition, with broken or chipped bars. Improving the packaging to provide better protection for the soap during transit could enhance the overall customer experience;
Who May Benefit From Using?
- Skincare Enthusiasts: Individuals who prioritize a comprehensive skincare routine and seek products with natural ingredients and enriching formulations will find You Smell Cleaner to be a beneficial addition to their regimen [4];
- Sensitive Skin Types: The gentle formulation of You Smell Cleaner, featuring ingredients like shea butter and olive oil, makes it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. Those who often experience irritation or dryness may find this cleanser to be a soothing and nourishing option;
- Aromatherapy Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy can benefit from You Smell Cleaner’s delightful scents. The Lemon Verbena and Lavender Mint fragrances contribute to a sensory experience, turning the act of cleansing into a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation;
- Individuals Seeking On-the-Go Freshness: The inclusion of paper wipes with the same invigorating scents as the cleanser makes You Smell Cleaner a practical choice for individuals with busy lifestyles. Those who need a quick and convenient solution for refreshing on the go will appreciate the versatility of this product;
- Conscious Consumers: Consumers who prioritize ethical and sustainable practices in their purchasing decisions may find You Smell Cleaner appealing. The brand’s commitment to natural ingredients, cruelty-free production, and eco-friendly packaging aligns with the values of conscious shoppers;
- Those Seeking a Break from Conventional Cleansers: Consumers looking to break away from conventional cleansers and explore a product that brings a fresh perspective to the market may benefit from trying You Smell Cleaner. Its unique blend of vibrancy, natural ingredients, and delightful scents sets it apart from more traditional options;
- Busy Professionals and Travelers: The convenience of paper wipes makes You Smell Cleaner an excellent choice for individuals with demanding schedules, such as busy professionals and frequent travelers. The compact and portable nature of the wipes allows for quick refreshment anytime, anywhere;
About Founders Of You Smell Soap
For her market testing initiative, Megan produced 1200 bars of soap featuring two distinct scents, marking the company’s presence in the “Pre-Venture Stage” with no sales recorded thus far.
To gauge market interest and establish an appropriate price point for this upscale product, batches of the luxury soap were dispatched to various outlets globally. Among the interested parties, Urban Outfitters emerged as the largest company expressing potential interest in carrying the You Smell Soap Brand.
Expanding her innovative portfolio, Megan introduced another creation known as the “You Smell Paper Soap”. True to its name, this inventive product presents soap in a convenient paper format, strategically positioned as an enticing impulse buy on store counters. This additional offering further demonstrates Megan’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional soap presentation and catering to consumer preferences in diverse and convenient formats.
The Pitch Of You Smell Soap At Shark Tank
Megan Cummins initiates her presentation by introducing herself to the Sharks, disclosing her venture known as You Smell Soap. She articulates her intention to secure an investment of fifty-five thousand dollars, offering a twenty percent stake in her company [6].
Throughout her pitch, Megan Cummins characterizes You Smell Soap as a novel luxury soap brand, that injects vitality into the industry. With delectable fragrances and a vibrant persona, the brand originated as a college project where Megan, in a package design class, had the freedom to create any product.
Intrigued by the notion of developing something with personality, Megan conceptualized “You Smell.” To avoid being blinded by excitement, she conducted a trial run, producing twelve hundred soap bars in two custom fragrances, Lemon and Mint. These samples are presented to the Sharks for olfactory inspection.
Megan Cummins distributes samples of You Smell Soap to the Sharks.
Robert Herjavec displays evident admiration for the custom packaging and soap bars.
Addressing the Sharks, Megan Cummins acknowledges that, being in the “Pre-Venture Stage,” the company has yet to generate revenue. However, she strategically sent out samples to retailers worldwide, including Urban Outfitters, the most significant entity expressing interest.
Megan introduces another innovation, the “You Smell Paper Soap,” a compact soap on paper designed for convenient impulse purchases.
Kevin O’Leary inquires if Megan Cummins has made any sales. Megan Cummins confirms that no sales have been made to date.
Mark Cuban queries if soap bars are sitting in a warehouse. Megan Cummins clarified that there were no soap bars in stock; they were promptly distributed. Almost overnight, You Smell Soap bars gained international traction.
Kevin O’Leary questions why the soap bars were given away. Megan Cummins explains that she opted for a trial run to gauge what people were willing to pay.
Mark Cuban inquires about the market insights gained from the trial. Megan Cummins reveals that prices ranged between seven and twelve dollars per bar, with larger companies aiming for a four-to-five-dollar price point.
Kevin O’Leary seeks information on the major companies interested in You Smell Soap. Megan Cummins identifies Urban Outfitters as the largest interested company, inquiring about production speed, quantities, and pricing.
Barbara Corcoran introduces the paper soap, prompting Megan Cummins to explain its design and portability, positioned as an impulse buy at cash registers.
Barbara Corcoran queries the retail price of the soap bars. Megan Cummins estimates the soap bars at around eighty cents, retailing at approximately two twenty-five each.
Mark Cuban expresses the need for stringent expectations if he were to invest. Megan Cummins interjects, expressing her eagerness to work with Mark Cuban, emphasizing her tenacity.
Mark Cuban inquires about the utilization of the fifty thousand dollars. Megan Cummins outlines plans to use the funds primarily for product development and increased production.
Kevin O’Leary questions if there are existing orders. Megan Cummins clarifies that there are no actual orders to avoid unfulfilled promises.
Daymond John admires Megan Cummins’ tenacity but opts out due to limited interest and knowledge in the soap business.
Kevin O’Leary points out the intense competition and questions the unproven value of the You Smell Soap brand.
Mark Cuban wishes Megan Cummins luck but decides not to invest. Mark Cuban asks Megan Cummins what sets her apart in bringing a concept to success.
Megan Cummins highlights her swift international press coverage within a month of launching her concept. Mark Cuban emphasizes the ephemeral nature of the press and inquires about Megan Cummins’ skills.
Megan Cummins asserts an unstoppable dedication to learning from the Sharks and getting tasks done. Mark Cuban offers fifty-five thousand dollars for a twenty percent stake and seeks an immediate agreement.
Barbara Corcoran intervenes, expressing her initial surprise turning into interest in working with Megan Cummins. Barbara Corcoran offers fifty-five thousand dollars for a thirty percent stake, with a desire for a return on investment and a per-bar royalty.
Robert Herjavec raises concerns about Megan Cummins’ commitment to You Smell Soap and proposes a modified offer.
Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran revised their offers, demonstrating continued interest. Robert Herjavec offers fifty-five thousand dollars for a twenty percent stake and an additional fifty thousand dollars for Megan Cummins’ living expenses.
Barbara Corcoran revises her offer to a thirty percent stake. Mark Cuban underscores the importance of support beyond financial investment.
Robert Herjavec reiterates his offer and queries Megan Cummins about a deal. Barbara Corcoran requests a moment to revise her offer, expressing newfound interest in Megan Cummins.
Barbara Corcoran revises her offer to fifty-five thousand dollars for a thirty percent stake. Mark Cuban acknowledges the importance of financial support in the initial year but is interested in Megan Cummins’ abilities to sustain success.
Robert Herjavec’s offer of fifty-five thousand dollars for a twenty percent stake, plus an additional fifty thousand dollars for living expenses, is accepted by Megan Cummins.
In the closing interview, Megan Cummins expresses the difficulty of choosing among the offers but highlights the extra financial support from Robert Herjavec as the decisive factor, believing he will be an excellent partner.
You Smell Soap After The Shark Tank
Following the Shark Tank experience, the reality differed from what was presented on television, as Cummins did not receive the agreed-upon amount from Robert. Off-screen, Robert altered his offer, seeking 50% of the company, a proposal that Megan declined [7].
However, in 2014, Megan discovered that the company’s valuation did not align with her initial projections. Subsequently, she decided to sell You Smell to an anonymous entity for an undisclosed amount.
Post her involvement with You Smell, Megan ventured into a new endeavor named SparklePop, a jewelry fashion company. We extend our best wishes to her for success in this new initiative.
You Smell Soap garnered attention and success owing to its appealing features, contributing positively to the business’s revenue. Eventually, the product found its place in the online market, specifically on Amazon.
During the testing phases, local retailers expressed interest in placing orders due to the product’s allure for customers. Regrettably, in 2014, Megan opted to sell the business, relinquishing control of You Smell. At the time of its appearance on Shark Tank, You Smell Soap held an estimated valuation of around $ 1 million.
The Net Worth Of You Smell Soap
Alternatives To You Smell Soap :
1) Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap
Known for its organic and fair-trade ingredients, Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap offers a wide range of scents, from lavender to peppermint. It’s a versatile option suitable for various uses, including body wash and face cleanser.
2) Method Naturally Derived Body Wash
Method’s body wash line features naturally derived ingredients and comes in various scents. The brand emphasizes environmentally friendly packaging, making it an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers.
3) Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Body Wash
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day offers body washes with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils. The scents, such as basil and lavender, provide a refreshing and aromatic cleansing experience.
4) Tom’s of Maine Natural Beauty Bar Soap
Tom’s of Maine is known for its commitment to natural products. The Natural Beauty Bar Soap range includes scents like orange blossom and lavender, offering a gentle cleansing option for those with sensitive skin.
5) Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser
Aesop is a premium skincare brand known for its quality ingredients. The Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser features a distinctive scent and a botanical formulation, providing a luxurious alternative for those willing to invest in high-end products.
6) Burt’s Bees Exfoliating Body Wash
Burt’s Bees, a well-known natural skincare brand, offers an exfoliating body wash enriched with ingredients like honey and jojoba beads. This option is suitable for those looking for gentle exfoliation along with cleansing.
7) EO Everyone Soap
EO Everyone Soap is a versatile product designed for use as a body wash, shampoo, and bubble bath. It comes in a variety of scents and is made with plant extracts, making it an inclusive option for those who enjoy multifunctional products [9].
8) Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar
Cetaphil is a dermatologist-recommended brand, and its Gentle Cleansing Bar is a soap alternative for those with sensitive skin. It’s fragrance-free and formulated to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
9) Alaffia African Black Soap
Alaffia’s African Black Soap is handcrafted with fair-trade ingredients and traditional methods. This soap is known for its deep-cleansing properties and is suitable for various skin types.
10) Native Body Wash
Native is recognized for its natural and aluminum-free deodorants, and their Body Wash follows suit. With scents like coconut and vanilla, Native offers a clean and refreshing option for daily cleansing.
FAQ:
- Who owns You Smell Soap?
You Smell Soap was founded by Megan Cummins.
- What soap was on Shark Tank?
You Smell Soap was featured on Shark Tank.
- What is the #1 product in Shark Tank history?
The #1 product in Shark Tank history is subjective and depends on various factors. However, notable successes include the Scrub Daddy and the Squatty Potty.
- Where does a soap smell come from?
The scent in soap typically comes from added fragrances or essential oils during the manufacturing process.
- Who makes the most soap in the world?
Procter & Gamble is one of the largest soap manufacturers globally, producing well-known brands like Ivory and Dove.
- What soap do rich people use?
Soap preferences vary, but some luxury brands, such as Jo Malone or Hermès, are favored by those seeking a more exclusive bathing experience.
- How does soap smell?
The scent of soap is created by incorporating fragrance oils or natural essential oils during the soap-making process.
- How long does soap smell?
The longevity of a soap’s scent depends on factors like the type of fragrance used and the soap’s storage conditions. Generally, scents can last for several months to a few years.
- Who is the poorest Shark Tank?
Kevin Harrington is often considered the poorest Shark Tank investor among the original panel.
- Why is Shark Tank bad?
Some criticisms of Shark Tank include concerns about the negotiation tactics used, the focus on entertainment over business, and the potential for unrealistic expectations for entrepreneurs.
- Is soap or body wash better?
The choice between soap and body wash is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some prefer the lathering and traditional feel of soap, while others favor the convenience and moisturizing aspects of body wash.
- Can soap stop the smell?
Soap is designed to cleanse and eliminate odors from the skin, making it an effective tool for reducing body odor.
- What is the best smell of soap?
The best smell of soap is subjective and varies based on personal preferences. Popular scents include lavender, citrus, mint, and floral fragrances.
- Does soap clean 100%?
Soap is effective in removing dirt, oils, and germs from the skin, providing a thorough cleaning. However, achieving 100% cleanliness may depend on factors like water quality, soap formulation, and proper usage.
Useful Video: “You Made A Mistake”| You Smell Soap on Shark Tank
References:
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/you-smell-soap-update/
- https://www.looper.com/1213937/you-smell-soap-made-a-deal-on-shark-tank-but-failed-in-the-end/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/you-smell-soap/
- https://bizzbucket.co/you-smell-soap-update/
- https://gazettereview.com/smell-soap-shark-tank-update-now/
- https://allsharktankproducts.com/shark-tank-products-health/you-smell-soap/
- https://2paragraphs.com/2015/10/you-smell-soap-dumped-by-shark-tanks-robert-herjavec-sells-engagement-ring/
- https://www.zerotough.com/you-smell-soap/
- https://thedieline.com/blog/2013/3/5/you-smell-soap.html