Banana Phone Shark Tank 2 Update | Season 14

Banana Phone Shark Tank 2 Update | Season 14

Season 14, Episode 2 of Shark Tank featured an innovative and quirky product: the Banana Phone. Entrepreneurs Brian Brunsing, Max Brown, and Charlie Katrycz entered the tank seeking $250,000 for 10% equity in their business, effectively valuing their company at $2.5 million.

 The Banana Phone is a Bluetooth handset designed to look like a banana, blending humor with

Despite their creative approach and the fun concept of a Bluetooth headset shaped like a banana, the sharks ultimately decided not to invest, citing concerns over the founders’ commitment to the business, as it was a side gig for them.

Update Since Shark Tank

Following their appearance on the show:

• Sales Performance: The Banana Phone has continued to perform well, with the company reporting over $1.6 million in total sales since its inception. In the year prior to their Shark Tank appearance, they generated around $540,000 in revenue, with expectations to exceed $1 million by the end of 2022.
• Marketing Strategies: The founders have creatively marketed the Banana Phone as a fun gift option, especially during the holiday season, and have engaged with popular cultural trends, such as leveraging the Barbie meme on social media.
• Sustainability Efforts: The company remains committed to environmental and conservation efforts, donating a portion of sales to gorilla conservation charities and using ethically sourced materials in their products.
• Retail Availability: The Banana Phone is available for purchase on various platforms, including Amazon and Walmart, which has helped broaden its market reach.

As of now, Banana Phone is still in business and continues to operate successfully. The novelty aspect of the product has kept it relevant, and the company maintains a positive reception with an average rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon.

However, co-founder Brian Brunsing stepped down in August 2023, leaving Max Brown as the primary figure in the business. The future of Banana Phone appears promising, but the founders still maintain other full-time jobs, which may impact the company’s growth potential.

As of October 2023, Banana Phone’s estimated net worth is around $1 million, reflecting its ongoing sales success and brand presence in the novelty market.

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What Is the Banana Phone?

The Banana Phone is a Bluetooth device that humorously mimics the appearance of a real banana. It functions as a wireless handset that connects to smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices, allowing users to make and receive calls in a playful manner.

The product was clearly designed with novelty and fun in mind, appealing to those who enjoy quirky gadgets or are looking for a unique gift.

The entrepreneurs explained that the Banana Phone was compatible with any smartphone or tablet that supports Bluetooth technology. Retailing at $40, the device was presented as a lighthearted alternative to traditional phone accessories. It also features a rechargeable lithium battery, providing up to 10 hours of talk time and 70 hours on standby.

Shark Tank Banana Phone Pitch

Max Brown and Brian Brunsing pitched their novelty product, Banana Phone, on Shark Tank Season 14, Episode 2, seeking $250,000 for a 10% equity stake.

Despite the humorous nature of the product, the sharks had mixed feelings about its viability as a long-term business venture. While they appreciated the creativity and entertainment value of the Banana Phone, they were concerned about the scalability and potential market saturation.

The entrepreneurs revealed that their product had garnered $1.6 million in lifetime sales as of September 2022, with $540,000 generated in the previous year alone. These figures were impressive, but the sharks were still wary.

Kevin O’Leary expressed doubts about the product’s place in his portfolio, ultimately deciding to pass. Mark Cuban, Robert Herjavec, Lori Greiner, and Barbara Corcoran also opted out, citing concerns about the niche market and limited growth potential. None of the sharks made an offer, leaving the entrepreneurs to walk away without a deal.

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What Happened to Banana Phone After Shark Tank?

Although Banana Phone did not secure a deal on Shark Tank, the exposure from the show provided a significant boost to their business. The product’s quirky nature and the viral appeal of their pitch led to increased traffic to their website and a surge in sales, particularly on Amazon. he novelty of the product, combined with its practical functionality, continued to attract customers looking for unique gifts and fun gadgets.

Social Media Buzz and Public Reaction

The Banana Phone garnered considerable attention on social media, with many viewers expressing their amusement and curiosity about the product. Barbara Corcoran even tweeted, “This is bananas! I can’t believe these two have those sales!” in response to the impressive sales figures shared during the pitch. The product’s unusual design sparked conversations and memes, further boosting its visibility online.

While some users on platforms like Twitter questioned the practicality of the device, others were eager to try it out for themselves. The buzz created by their Shark Tank appearance led to a temporary spike in sales, particularly among those who appreciated the humor and novelty of the product.

Sales and Business Growth

As of April 2024, Banana Phone remains in business and continues to sell its signature product online. The company’s lifetime sales are estimated at $1.9 million, with the product maintaining a steady presence on Amazon and other online retailers.

The positive reviews on Amazon—with many customers giving the product a 5-star rating—reflect the satisfaction of buyers who embraced the product for what it is: a fun, conversation-starting gadget.

The company also stands out for its commitment to philanthropy. Since its inception, Banana Phone has pledged to donate 1% of its annual sales to Gearing Up 4 Gorillas, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting endangered mountain gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This charitable aspect has added a meaningful dimension to their business, resonating with socially conscious consumers.

Banana Phone Shark Tank Pitch Summary

Is Banana Phone Still in Business?

Yes, Banana Phone is still in business as of April 2024. The company continues to sell its Bluetooth handsets online and has maintained a niche market for its product. While it remains a novelty item, the Banana Phone has carved out a space for itself in the market, appealing to those who enjoy quirky and humorous gadgets.

The Banana Phone may not have secured a deal on Shark Tank, but it has certainly made an impact with its unique and entertaining product. With steady sales, positive customer feedback, and a growing online presence, Banana Phone continues to thrive as a fun and innovative business.

The company’s commitment to philanthropy further distinguishes it, ensuring that its success also contributes to a good cause.