Plufl, a company known for its innovative approach to creating human-sized dog beds for people, made quite an impression when it appeared on the popular television show “Shark Tank.” The product’s main goal is to provide maximum comfort and security to ensure restful sleep while also alleviating stress, exhaustion, and anxiety.
At the time of their pitch during Season 14, founders Yuki Kinoshita and Noah Silverman were seeking a $200,000 investment for 10% equity in their company, Plufl. In the end, they secured a deal with renowned investors Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, who agreed to provide the requested capital for a slightly increased 15% equity stake. This investment not only validated Plufl’s concept and product but also paved the way for the brand’s potential expansion and success in the market.
Since appearing on “Shark Tank,” Plufl has continued to capture the attention and interest of many consumers. Its unique approach to redefining the concept of relaxation and rest has struck a chord, particularly with busy college students who can relate to the need for a comfortable space to nap and unwind.
Founders and Shark Tank Pitch
Yuki Kinoshita and Noah Silverman
Plufl was founded by Yuki Kinoshita and Noah Silverman. Both hailing from the U.S., they crossed paths in 2018 while attending the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. The two quickly became friends, bonding over their shared interests in entrepreneurship, dogs, and napping. This unique combination of passions eventually led them to create Plufl, an innovative company with a mission to improve the napping experience for busy college students and others in need of quality rest.
Episode and Season Information
Plufl made its Shark Tank debut in Season 14, specifically on Episode 5. Kinoshita and Silverman entered the Tank seeking a $200,000 investment for 10% equity in their company. The pitch highlighted the potential of Plufl to revolutionize the napping industry, backed by a strong user base and positive reviews from customers.
During the course of the pitch, multiple Sharks showed interest, but it was Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner who sealed the deal. They countered with an offer of $200,000 for 15% equity, which the founders ultimately accepted. This marked a new chapter for Plufl, now valued at $1,333,333, and well on its way to further growth and success.
Product Details and Features
Human-Sized Dog Bed
Plufl brings a unique concept to the world of sleeping solutions – a human-sized dog bed. This innovative product allows people to experience the same comfort, warmth, and security that their furry friends enjoy. Measuring 70″ long by 38″ wide, and weighing around 20 pounds, the Plufl bed has built-in handles and a foldable design, making it portable for various environments such as bedrooms, living rooms, or workspaces.
Materials and Comfort
The Plufl bed boasts high-quality materials that prioritize comfort and durability for its users. It incorporates orthopedic memory foam to provide optimal support and alleviate pressure points. The faux fur surface ensures a soft, cozy experience, similar to that of an animal’s fur. A pillow border around the edges further enhances comfort levels, emulating the familiar snugness of a dog bed.
To enhance its functionality, the Plufl bed is designed with high-grade, waterproof, and windproof materials. These features ensure the bed can withstand various environments and resist wear and tear, making it an investment in long-lasting comfort.
Business Journey
Kickstarter Campaign
In April 2022, Plufl launched a successful Kickstarter campaign with an initial goal of just $25,000. To their surprise, by May 2022, they managed to raise an impressive $290,657 from 799 backers. The founders, Yuki Kinoshita and Noah Silverman, met while studying at the University of British Columbia, where their friendship blossomed, leading to the creation of Plufl.
Their Kickstarter success not only served as a testament to the growing interest in their innovative human-sized dog bed but also helped in creating a strong foundation for their business. As of September 2023, they have more than doubled their revenue.
Trademark and Manufacturing
Plufl worked diligently to establish their brand and manufacturing process. They trademarked their name and prioritized quality control throughout production. By November 2022, they had ironed out the kinks in their manufacturing process, ensuring the mass production of their human-sized dog beds would meet customer expectations.
As they continued to grow and expand their operations, Plufl remained committed to delivering a product that was comfortable, unique, and desirable. Their perseverance and dedication paid off, and by January 2023, they had successfully scaled their business while maintaining the high standards they had set for themselves.
Shark Tank Negotiations and Outcome
Sharks Involved
During Season 14 of Shark Tank, Plufl founders Yuki Kinoshita and Noah Silverman pitched their innovative product to the Sharks, including Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Kevin O’Leary, and Emma Grede.
Deal Details
Yuki and Noah entered the Shark Tank seeking an investment of $200,000 for a 10% equity stake in Plufl, valuing the company at $2 million. The Plufl bed is designed as a human-sized dog bed-style sleep solution, perfect for busy individuals such as college students, who need quick naps in various locations.
After listening to the founders’ pitch, the Sharks expressed their interest in the product, and the outcome of the negotiations was a successful Plufl Shark Tank deal. Following the show, the Plufl bed gained more traction, as seen by their Kickstarter campaign in April 2022, which raised $290,657 from 799 backers, surpassing their initial goal of $25,000.
As of September 2023, the company has continued to grow, expanding its product line and customer base, and earning more than double its previous year’s revenue. The Plufl bed’s soft and comfortable cover and its portability have contributed to its success in the market. With the support of the investment and guidance from the Shark Tank panel, Plufl has successfully established itself in the industry and is providing a unique sleep solution for its customers.
Post Shark Tank Update
Orders and Pre-Orders
After their successful appearance on Shark Tank Season 14, Plufl, the company that introduced the world’s first human-sized dog bed for humans, experienced a significant increase in orders and pre-orders. With the promise of providing maximum comfort and relief from stress, exhaustion, and anxiety, Plufl attracted a large number of customers, particularly among college students with hectic schedules.
Sales and Revenues
As a result of the increased orders and pre-orders following their appearance on Shark Tank, Plufl’s sales and revenues also saw a substantial growth. Their dog beds became available on platforms like Amazon, making it easier for customers to purchase them with free shipping for Amazon Prime members. This accessibility further boosted their sales figures.
Current Net Worth
Plufl has come a long way since securing a deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner during their Shark Tank pitch. At the time of their pitch, they valued their company at $2,000,000 and ended up agreeing to an investment of $200,000 for a 15% equity stake, resulting in a final valuation of roughly $1,333,333. Recent estimates suggest that Plufl’s current net worth has reached about $1.4 million, a friendly rise from their initial valuation.
Product Benefits and Use
Anxiety and Stress Relief
Plufl beds, designed with the idea of human-sized dog beds, provide a unique solution for those struggling with anxiety and stress. The high borders on Plufl beds act like a built-in pillow, creating a sense of security and comfort. The orthopedic memory foam used in the bed’s construction further enhances relaxation by providing pressure therapy. This combination of features is particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD, as pressure therapy can alleviate some of their symptoms.
Napping and Sleeping Benefits
In addition to easing anxiety and stress, Plufl beds offer numerous advantages for individuals looking for improved napping and sleeping experiences. It’s no secret that college students and busy professionals often need to take naps whenever and wherever possible. Plufl beds provide a comfortable and inviting space for catching some rest.
Furthermore, the soft cover and memory foam construction enhance the overall sleep quality. With the Plufl bed, users can experience better rest during both naps and longer periods of sleep. By addressing the need for sleep and comfort in various situations, Plufl has become an essential napping product for many.
Availability and Price Information
Where to Buy
Plufl beds, also known as ‘The Original Dog Bed for Humans,’ are available for pre-order through their official website. After initially raising funds through Kickstarter and Indiegogo campaigns, the company has been thoroughly working on their unique product and keeping their backers updated on the progress.
Price Range
The Plufl bed is available in two colors, Arctic Gray and Biscuit. The price point for each Plufl bed is $499. During their appearance on Shark Tank, the founders, Noah Silverman and Yuki Kinoshita, mentioned that the cost of manufacturing each bed is approximately $150. This investment proved fruitful as they secured a deal with investors Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner for $200,000 in exchange for 15% equity in their business, increasing their company’s net worth to $1.4 million.
Product Review
Plufl is a unique and innovative product that has gained popularity for its luxurious comfort and design. It is the world’s first human-sized dog bed, created to provide maximum relaxation and stress relief. Made from orthopedic memory foam and lined with faux fur, this bed is perfect for anyone seeking a cozy and portable sleeping solution.
One of the key features of Plufl is its portability. Measuring 70″ long by 38″ wide and weighing at about 20 pounds, it allows users to conveniently transport it and set up a comfortable resting area wherever they may need it. The fluffy border, doubling as a pillow, adds to the overall snuggly experience and ensures a restful sleep.
In addition to its aesthetically pleasing appearance and portability, the Plufl bed is highly practical with its machine-washable cover. This means that users can effortlessly clean and maintain their bed, ensuring that it stays fresh and hygienic for extended periods. The washable feature makes it perfect for those with sensitive skin as it enables regular washing and eliminates the accumulation of dust and allergens.
Overall, Plufl has become a sought-after product due to its luxurious comfort, portability, and easy maintenance. Its machine-washable cover and soft, supportive memory foam make it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a good night’s sleep and maximum relaxation. With positive reviews from customers and successful crowdfunding campaigns, Plufl seems to be on the right track, providing a unique solution to a universal need – a truly comfortable and cozy resting place.
Final Thoughts on Plufl
Plufl, the company behind the world’s first human-sized dog beds, has come a long way since its appearance on Shark Tank. It received an investment of $200,000 for 15% equity from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, giving the company a final valuation of $1,333,333. The beds, which provide maximum comfort and security, have gained popularity among people seeking relief from stress, exhaustion, and anxiety.
Interestingly, Plufl bed designs resemble dog beds, using orthopedic memory foam for added comfort. They even feature a high border that functions like a pillow. This pet-friendly approach has struck a chord with consumers searching for a cozy and snug space to unwind.
Furthermore, the brand’s expansion and growth in recent years are testament to the spirit of entrepreneurship. Thanks to constant updates and improvements based on user feedback, Plufl has continued to thrive in the market. The company now boasts a net worth of $1.4 million, proving that innovative ideas backed by hard work can be successful.
Lastly, Plufl’s unique product offering has found a niche among bridal babes, who appreciate the concept of comfort combined with a fun and distinctive design. As a result, Plufl has garnered attention not only from sleep enthusiasts but also from those involved in exciting life events like weddings.
