Pipcorn Snacks: Whatever Happened To The Company After Shark Tank?

While some well-known food brands, like Kodiak Cakes, rose to popularity despite their rejected "Shark Tank" offers, others went on to find major success in the market after securing a deal with a Shark. The latter was the case for Pipcorn Snacks, which was founded by Brooklyn, New York, siblings Jeff and Jennifer Martin, and presented to the panel in Season 6 of the ABC reality show.

The Martins' journey to entrepreneurship began in 2010, when they found themselves growing hungry during Jennifer's move. With everything packed, the only thing on hand to eat were some heirloom corn kernels, which the siblings decided to pop. Instantly, the Martins knew they had found something special in this miniature, tasty treat. Thus, the Pipcorn Snacks brand was born and, a few years later, pitched to Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O'Leary (what's the worst deal he ever made on "Shark Tank"?), and the rest of the Sharks on national television. Here's what happened.

On "Shark Tank," Jeff and Jennifer Martin requested $200,000 for 10% of their company, which at that point offered several different flavors, from sea salt to white truffle, of the pint-sized popcorn. Of course, they brought samples for the Sharks, who enjoyed the unique snack known as Pipcorn.

As they munched, Jeff explained, "Pipcorn's delicious, all-natural and, you guessed it, mini. Even better, the shells are much, much, much smaller and more delicate. So say goodbye to those thick, hard pieces that get stuck in your teeth." Additionally, the snacks have less fat and calories, and are made from 100% non-GMO ingredients.

Barbara Corcoran made an offer of $200,000 for 10%, in addition to 10% of distributions, while Robert Herjavec was willing to give the Martins their original request of $200,000 for 10%. After a moment of contemplation, the siblings went with Corcoran, whom they said they always wanted to work with. She told them, "You know you guys are winners. I could smell it a mile away."

Barbara Corcoran (who has some unexpected advice for Generation Z entering the workforce) was correct in her assessment that Jeff and Jennifer Martin are winners. After their successful "Shark Tank" episode, this entrepreneurial duo's product was in high demand, so much so that Pipcorn Snacks experienced backorder problems. That issue has since been rectified, with the company now distributing from across the country.

In 2023, the co-founders shared an impressive update with CNBC. "Today, Pipcorn is sold in over 4,000 retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods, Sprouts, The Fresh Market, ShopRite, Kroger, and hundreds of independents across the country," said Jeff. "We've sold over 7 ½ million bags of Pipcorn and done over $18 million in sales."

Since "Shark Tank," the company has expanded its lineup of offerings beyond popcorn to include baked fries, twists, corn dippers, cheese balls, and more. Additionally, Pipcorn still has the support of Corcoran, who hails it as one of her best "Shark Tank" investments. She told CNBC, "Every one of my entrepreneurs in the food business is genuinely nice and they really love what they do. For me, they make really great partners."