Gaston Blanchet and Jesse Potash appeared on Shark Tank in season 7 to pitch their idea,Trunkster. Did they strike a deal? Are they still operating their business today? Find out now.
Business Name
Trunkster
Founder(s)
Gaston Blanchet and Jesse Potash
Business Genre
Travel
Shark Tank Season and Episode #
Season 7 Episode 10
Asking Price
$1.4 Million for 5%
Business Status
Out of Business
What is Trunkster?
Trunkster is zipperless smart luggage that has a GPS and USB charging station built in. A built-in scale and removable battery for the charging station was also included. It’s meant to streamline the luggage experience.
Did They Strike a Deal?
Yes, Gaston Blanchet and Jesse Potash did strike a deal with two sharks: Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban. The deal was $1.4 million for 5% equity. But, post-show, the deal fell through.
Shark Tank Recap
Kevin O’Leary wondered where Gaston and Jesse got their valuation from. He was skeptical, but they reassured him that was because they pre-sold $2 million in product, and at showtime, had more units on the way. They were projected to do $9 million in sales. Barbara Corcoran thought it was too masculine and too heavy, plus consumers hadn’t tried it; she was out. Robert Herjavec jokingly offered the money – but for a vacation.
The guys’ counteroffer to Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner was $1.4 million for 5% each with a guarantee on the money being paid in 24 months or they’d double the equity if they didn’t pay it back. Plus, they offered 1 dollar per unit in perpetuity. Lori and Mark took that deal.
Trunkster Shark Tank Recap: How Much Did They Ask For?
They asked for $1.4 Million for 5%.
Who is Gaston Blanchet, co-founder of Trunkster?
Gaston Blanchet co-founded Trunkster with Jesse Potash in 2015. By 2018, he was working as Head of Growth for Fluent Forever. Currently, he’s co-founded another startup product: Storypod, which has received buzz in media outlets like TODAY and Romper.
Are They Still in Business?
No, they went out of business in 2018.
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