Pluie has garnered attention for addressing a common concern among parents and caregivers: the need for hygienic public spaces to change diapers. Created by co-founders Addie Gundry and Brittany Hizer, the Pluie Diaper Changing Table offers a revolutionary solution by integrating self-sanitizing technology. The exposure on Shark Tank catapulted Pluie into the limelight, where it didn’t secure a deal but nonetheless made significant strides in the baby care industry.
The company’s journey through Shark Tank provided Pluie with a platform to showcase their innovative approach to enhancing public restroom hygiene. Despite not winning an investment, Pluie’s product piqued public interest and has since been marketed as a valuable asset for any facility frequented by families with young children. The story of Pluie on Shark Tank is a testament to the value of entrepreneurship and the possibilities of success even when the conventional routes of backing don’t materialize.
Key Takeaways
- Pluie introduced a self-sanitizing diaper changing table, addressing public restroom hygiene.
- The brand gained visibility through its Shark Tank appearance, despite not securing a deal.
- Pluie’s progress exemplifies entrepreneurship and success beyond the show’s investment.
Pluie’s Innovation in Public Restroom Hygiene
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roZ6BeHIjSw&embed=true
Pluie has revolutionized the public restroom experience with its self-sanitizing diaper-changing table, ensuring a cleaner environment for families. This product harnesses a patented UV-C light system to proactively combat common restroom germs.
Design and Functionality
The Pluie changing table is engineered with functionality and design in mind. It features a comfortable changing area equipped with a security strap for safety, and its self-sanitizing mechanism is a standout. This is not just any diaper-changing station; its patented UV-C light system automatically sanitizes the surface, killing 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and viruses including E. coli, influenza, and coronavirus.
Health and Safety Benefits
Pluie’s changing tables offer substantial health and safety benefits:
- Self-Sanitizing: Utilizes UV-C light to sterilize the surface after each use.
- Reduced Contamination: Minimizes the spread of germs and harmful bacteria.
- Comfort and Security: Provides a comfortable changing surface with additional safety features.
This product not only keeps the changing area clean but also offers peace of mind to parents, knowing their child is in a safer, more hygienic space.
Awards and Recognitions
Pluie has garnered significant attention and accolades for its innovative design:
- TIME Magazine: Recognized as one of the Best Inventions of the year.
- Chicago Innovation Awards: Awarded at the 21st Annual Chicago Innovation Awards, highlighting its significant contribution to improving public restroom hygiene.
Pluie’s Journey on Shark Tank
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cDMJTH07o0&embed=true
In an engaging episode of Shark Tank‘s Season 14, entrepreneurs Addie Gundry and Brittany Hizer showcased Pluie, their innovative self-sanitizing diaper changing table, and sought investment to scale their business.
Pitch and Product Demonstration
During their pitch, Addie and Brittany demonstrated the unique features of Pluie, emphasizing how it transforms the experience of public diaper changes. They showcased Pluie’s self-sanitizing technology, underlining not just the functionality but also the performance and convenience for parents. The founders’ presentation was aimed at addressing a common parental concern, making public diaper changing safer and more comfortable.
Investment and Valuation
The entrepreneurs entered the Shark Tank seeking a $500,000 investment for 5% equity, which puts Pluie’s pre-money valuation at $10 million. Throughout the episode, the sharks, including Robert Herjavec and Lori, weighed the presented sales figures against the asked valuation to determine if a deal was feasible. Despite the clever design and proven sales capability, no deal was struck on the show. However, Pluie managed to sustain a significant business post their Shark Tank appearance.
Business Insights and Consumer Information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIishreO_Ek&embed=true
This section provides a closer look at the accessibility of Pluie products for interested consumers and introduces the dynamic individuals behind the brand’s success.
Product Availability and Pricing
Pluie’s innovative self-sanitizing diaper changing tables have caught the eye of consumers and businesses alike. After their involvement with Shark Tank, their product has become highly sought after in various markets, catering to parents, caregivers, and establishments such as restaurants, health clubs, fitness centers, and public bathrooms. The pricing strategy for Pluie’s tables is set at a level that reflects its value to customers, with the intent to remain accessible to small and large establishments, looking to invest in health, safety, and convenience for their clientele.
Profiles of Key Team Members
Pluie thrives under the guidance of its co-founders, Addie Gundry and Brittany Hizer. Addie Gundry, a graduate of the Kellogg School of Management, brings her expertise to the role of CEO, infusing the company with her innovative vision and passion for family-friendly products. Brittany Hizer, serving as President and carrying a wealth of leadership experience, perfectly complements the team with her actionable insights and strategic direction for the company. Together, their unique blend of skills and dedication propels Pluie forward in a competitive market, keeping an emphasis on quality and the needs of modern parents and caregivers.
