Shark Tank Season 15: Why I Love Chamoy’s Founder Turned Down a ‘Shark Tank’ Deal

“Shark Tank” is a hit reality TV show where budding entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to a panel of investors, the Sharks. The most recent episode had many viewers raising their eyebrows when Annie Leal, founder of I Love Chamoy, walked away from a potential deal with Shark Kevin O’Leary.

Annie was seeking $300,000 for 5% equity in her unique sauce company. I Love Chamoy offers a sugar-free version of the traditional Mexican sauce, chamoy, a lip-smacking blend that has found its place in Mexican cuisine for decades. The sugar-free feature sets it apart in a market inundated with sugary, high-calorie options. Annie’s company is not only a business but also an ode to her cultural roots.

I Love Chamoy is already a success story with $1.3 million in sales, mostly from direct customer transactions with minimal promotional activities. The numbers were enticing enough to attract Shark Kevin O’Leary’s attention, also known as Mr. Wonderful. However, what really got the audience talking was Annie’s decision to decline Kevin’s counter-offer of $300,000 for 15% equity, terming it a “blood-sucking offer.”

Shark Tank: Fans and Critics Weigh In

Immediately following the episode, social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit were abuzz with varied opinions. While some viewers commended Annie for sticking to her valuation, others questioned the logic behind her refusal. Tweets popped up, like, “Blood-sucking offer? Has she ever seen this show? 15% is generous.”

Even fellow Shark, Mark Cuban, chimed in during the episode, advising Annie to “Stick to your guns.” The sentiment found an echo on Reddit where users posted comments such as, “She doesn’t need a shark,” and, “I feel like I Love Chamoy is doing better by herself; she doesn’t need the Sharks.”

Love a #SharkTank entrance with a musical accompaniment! 💀🎺 pic.twitter.com/bBdmwBMlG3

— Shark Tank (@ABCSharkTank) October 28, 2023

Shark Tank: How to Get Your Hands on I Love Chamoy

For those intrigued by this tantalizing product, I Love Chamoy is available online in three mouth-watering flavors: Original, Chilli Mango, and Pickle. Priced at $12 per bottle or $35 for a pack of three, it also has a six-bottle option for $60. New customers can avail of a 15% discount on their first order by sharing their email. You can also find the product on Amazon, priced at $35 for a variety pack.

Moreover, the sauces are low in calories, carb-free, and perfect for those wanting to enjoy some guilt-free indulgence. If you’re interested in finding out more about what makes this sauce so special, or to explore some delectable recipes that can elevate your meals, don’t forget to catch “Shark Tank” Season 15, airing Fridays at 8 pm ET on ABC.

Thus, even though I Love Chamoy may have missed out on Shark Tank investment, the company’s story continues to captivate many, proving once again that the journey of entrepreneurship is as gripping as it is unpredictable.