Babys Bad Ass Burgers Shark Tank Update

Publish date: 2024-06-16

Welcome to our Shark Tank update on Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers, the gourmet burger business that made waves in season 4. Founded by Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers entered the tank seeking a $250,000 investment in exchange for a 30% stake in their successful food truck venture. With sales totaling $850,000 over three years, the duo impressed the Sharks with their delicious burgers and unique branding.

Although Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers didn’t secure a deal, the entrepreneurs continued to thrive and show profitability. Let’s dive into their Shark Tank pitch, the Sharks’ reactions, and their post-show success.

babys bad ass burgers shark tank

Key Takeaways:

The Shark Tank Pitch

During their pitch in the Shark Tank, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera presented their idea for a brick-and-mortar store for Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers. They highlighted their experience in the restaurant industry and the success they had already achieved with their mobile food trucks, which were generating an average of $375,000 in annual revenue. However, the Sharks raised concerns about the shift in business model and the potential risks involved in opening a physical location.

“We believe that opening a brick-and-mortar store will allow us to provide an enhanced dining experience to our customers while expanding our brand presence,” said Erica Cohen during the pitch.

Erica and Lori showcased their vibrant food truck concept and emphasized the uniqueness of their burger offerings. They explained their vision to create a welcoming environment where customers could enjoy their gourmet burgers in a laid-back atmosphere while also offering delivery and takeout options.

The Sharks expressed reservations about the potential challenges of operating a brick-and-mortar store, including high overhead costs, lease commitments, and increased competition. Mark Cuban cautioned, “Expanding into a physical location can be a risky move for a business that has found success in the food truck market.”

Despite the doubts expressed by the Sharks, Erica and Lori remained steadfast in their belief that a brick-and-mortar store would allow them to cater to a larger customer base and elevate the Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers brand. They presented a thorough business plan, emphasizing their strong track record in the food industry and the loyal customer following they had established through their food trucks.

Although they did not secure an investment from the Sharks, the duo left the Shark Tank determined to prove that their vision for a brick-and-mortar location was both viable and profitable.

The Success of the Food Truck Model

Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera’s success with their food truck model played a significant role in their pitch to the Sharks. They demonstrated that their gourmet burgers had already gained popularity and generated substantial revenue through their mobile food trucks. The duo’s ability to create a unique brand and attract customers with their vibrant and eye-catching food trucks impressed the Sharks.

By operating food trucks, Erica and Lori were able to reach different locations and cater to diverse audiences. They offered a convenient and accessible way for customers to enjoy their delicious burgers without the constraints of a physical location.

“Our food trucks have allowed us to establish a strong customer base and generate consistent revenue,” said Lori Barbera during the pitch.

The revenue figures presented by the entrepreneurs showcased the profitability of their food truck business. With an average annual revenue of $375,000, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers had demonstrated its ability to attract and satisfy customers with its gourmet burger offerings.

Addressing Concerns and Looking Towards the Future

During their pitch, Erica and Lori listened attentively to the concerns raised by the Sharks regarding the challenges of opening a brick-and-mortar store. They acknowledged the risks involved but remained confident in their ability to navigate those obstacles and succeed.

“We understand the challenges of operating a physical location, but we believe that it will allow us to create a stronger brand presence and offer a more immersive dining experience,” said Erica Cohen.

The entrepreneurs assured the Sharks that they had thoroughly considered the financial implications and had developed strategies to mitigate the risks associated with a brick-and-mortar store.

While they did not secure a deal in the Shark Tank, Erica and Lori left with valuable feedback and a renewed determination to continue growing and expanding their burger business.

The Shark’s Reactions

The Sharks had mixed opinions about Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers’ proposed transition from food trucks to a brick-and-mortar store. While Mark Cuban and some of the other Sharks believed that the food truck model was the right fit for the duo and that opening a restaurant would be too risky, Robert Herjavec, Barbara Corcoran, and Kevin O’Leary opted out of a deal due to concerns about the brick-and-mortar concept.

Despite not securing an investment from the Sharks, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera valued the feedback and advice they received. The Sharks’ reactions provided valuable insights that helped shape the future of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers.

Mark Cuban’s Perspective

“I think the food truck model suits your business perfectly. It’s unique, and it’s working for you. Opening a restaurant introduces a whole new set of challenges and risks. Stick with what’s already successful.”

Robert Herjavec, Barbara Corcoran, and Kevin O’Leary’s Concerns

Although they didn’t secure a deal in the Shark Tank, the feedback from the Sharks helped Erica and Lori gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and considerations involved in expanding their burger business.

shark tank success

SharkOpinion
Mark CubanBelieved the food truck model suited the business and advised against opening a restaurant
Robert HerjavecExpressed concerns about the brick-and-mortar concept and decided not to invest
Barbara CorcoranEncouraged the entrepreneurs to stick with the successful food truck model and opted out of a deal
Kevin O’LearyExpressed concerns about the overhead costs of a brick-and-mortar store and chose not to invest

Post-Shark Tank Success

Despite not securing an investment from the Sharks, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers proved that their business could thrive and turn a profit. Instead of opening a physical location, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera made the strategic decision to continue selling their gourmet burgers out of their iconic hot pink food truck, maintaining their unique branding and mobility.

By leveraging the publicity gained from their appearance on Shark Tank, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers experienced significant growth and expansion. They capitalized on their newfound popularity and expanded their operations to six truck locations, serving customers in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura, San Diego, Orange County, and Houston. This strategic move allowed them to reach a wider audience and increase their customer base.

As of August 2022, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers has achieved remarkable success, with an annual revenue of $5 million. The business continued to generate substantial profits through their food truck model, captivating burger enthusiasts and building a loyal customer following.

burger revenue growth

“Our experience on Shark Tank was a valuable stepping stone for our business. While we didn’t secure a deal, the exposure and feedback we received enabled us to refine our strategy and focus on what truly sets us apart: our delicious burgers and attention-grabbing food trucks,” said Erica Cohen.

Their ability to adapt, stay true to their brand, and capitalize on their Shark Tank success has solidified Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers as a prominent player in the competitive burger industry. By continuing to innovate and meet customer demands, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera are shaping the future of their business and reinforcing their position as leaders in the gourmet burger market.

Key Takeaways:

Leveraging Publicity

Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera, the founders of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers, made the most of their appearances on reality TV shows like Shark Tank to generate buzz and publicity for their burger business. Despite not securing a deal from the Sharks, they used the exposure to their advantage by attracting crowds to their food truck locations and expanding their catering services for private events.

With their captivating concept and mouthwatering burgers, Erica and Lori knew how to grab people’s attention. Their appearances on Shark Tank helped them reach a wider audience and establish Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers as a recognizable brand in the competitive burger industry.

The duo capitalized on their newfound fame and quickly became favorites among food enthusiasts and burger lovers. Their unique selling point, the iconic hot pink truck staffed by beautiful women, became a symbol of their success and an attraction in itself.

The Power of Publicity

By leveraging the publicity gained from their Shark Tank appearance, Erica and Lori were able to keep their burger business thriving. They strategically used their media exposure to drive foot traffic to their food trucks, create a buzz on social media, and attract attention from local news outlets.

The attention garnered from Shark Tank allowed Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers to stand out in a crowded market, where competition is fierce. People were enticed by the combination of delicious gourmet burgers, the unique branding, and the vibrant food truck experience.

“The exposure we received from Shark Tank was invaluable. We saw an immediate increase in customers and catering requests. It really put us on the map,” explained Erica Cohen.

As the popularity of their food trucks soared, Erica and Lori expanded their catering services for private events. From corporate functions to weddings, their mouthwatering burgers became a sought-after culinary delight. Their ability to cater to different events and occasions further fueled their profitability and business growth.

A Visual Feast

Part of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers’ success can be attributed to their eye-catching branding and visual appeal. From the bright pink food truck to the beautiful staff serving up mouthwatering burgers, every aspect of their business was designed to create a memorable experience for customers.

shark tank success

This image showcases the vibrant and iconic hot pink food truck that has become synonymous with Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers. The truck’s striking appearance, combined with delicious food, helped create a strong visual presence that attracted customers and garnered attention from passersby.

Continued Growth and Success

The ability of Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera to leverage the publicity generated by their appearances on Shark Tank has been instrumental in the continued growth and success of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers. Their strategic marketing, combined with a top-quality product and a memorable experience, has solidified their position as a profitable and thriving burger business.

From their humble beginnings as a food truck concept to their expansion into multiple locations, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers remains a prime example of how leveraging publicity can propel a business forward, even without securing a deal in the Shark Tank.

The Shark Tank Blog Mentions

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers garnered attention on the popular Shark Tank Blog, where their distinctive burger-focused food truck concept was highlighted. The blog showcased the unique combination of mouthwatering taste and visually appealing presentation that sets this business apart from other burger ventures. Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera, the innovative founders of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers, received praise for their entrepreneurial spirit and their remarkable ability to create a successful business that resonates with customers.

babys bad ass burgers

The Shark Tank Blog recognized the bold and flavorful offerings of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers, describing them as the epitome of what a great burger should be. The inventive menu, which features a variety of delicious burger options, satisfies the cravings of burger enthusiasts while delivering a memorable dining experience. The visual appeal of their food truck, with its iconic bright pink color and beautiful staff, adds to the overall allure of the brand.

“Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers has revolutionized the burger business by combining mouthwatering flavors with eye-catching aesthetics. Their unique approach has captivated customers and positioned them as a force to be reckoned with in the food industry.”

The Shark Tank Blog’s mention of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers further solidifies their reputation as a standout burger business, attracting even more attention and eager customers. The founders’ innovative vision and commitment to delivering exceptional taste and quality have truly paid off, making Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers a beloved and celebrated name in the burger scene.

The Origins of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers was founded in 2009 by Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera, who identified the booming trend of food trucks in Los Angeles as a golden opportunity to showcase their passion for creating the perfect cheeseburger. With a distinctive bright pink truck and a team of beautiful women, they set out to revolutionize the food truck industry with their gourmet burger business.

From the very beginning, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers garnered attention and captured the hearts of celebrities and foodies alike in the greater Los Angeles area. The unique combination of mouthwatering flavors, playful branding, and an immersive dining experience made them stand out in the crowded burger market.

Within just three years of operation, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers achieved impressive sales of $850,000, cementing their position as a successful player in the gourmet burger scene. Their commitment to quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction propelled their business forward.

Baby's Bad Ass Burgers truck

This image depicts one of the iconic bright pink trucks that Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers uses to serve their delicious burgers.

The Decision to Open a Brick-and-Mortar Store

Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera had a long-term vision for the future of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers. They believed that their success with the food truck model could be replicated in a brick-and-mortar location. However, when presenting their idea in the Shark Tank, the duo faced skepticism from the Sharks, who raised concerns about the potential financial risks associated with operating a restaurant. Despite the doubts, Erica and Lori remained determined to pursue their vision.

While the Sharks questioned the decision to shift from the proven food truck model to a brick-and-mortar store, Erica and Lori saw an opportunity to expand their brand and reach a broader customer base. They understood that a physical location could offer advantages such as increased visibility, a larger seating capacity, and the ability to attract a walk-in customer base. By opening a restaurant, they aimed to create a memorable dining experience for their customers while maintaining the quality and taste that made Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers a success.

brick-and-mortar location

Despite not securing a deal in the Shark Tank, Erica and Lori decided to stick with their proven food truck model. They recognized the potential financial risks associated with opening a brick-and-mortar location and weighed the feedback from the Sharks against their own instincts and experiences. As a result, they continued operating out of their iconic hot pink truck, serving their award-winning burgers to customers across multiple locations.

The decision to prioritize their food truck business allowed Erica and Lori to focus on what they knew best: delivering delicious burgers with a side of fun and personality. By staying true to their brand and maintaining a strong presence in the food truck industry, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers continued to build a loyal customer base and generate substantial revenue.

Lessons Learned from the Shark Tank Experience

Despite not securing a deal in the Shark Tank, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers took the Sharks’ feedback to heart and used it to refine their business strategy. They acknowledged the value of their successful food truck model and recognized the potential of leveraging their publicity to drive growth.

By heeding the advice and insights provided by the Sharks, Erica and Lori were able to adapt and navigate the competitive burger industry. The Shark Tank experience served as a valuable learning opportunity, enabling them to refine their approach and continue their entrepreneurial journey.

Adapting and Staying True to the Food Truck Model

One key lesson learned was the importance of staying true to what was already working for Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers – their iconic food truck model. The Sharks’ concerns about transitioning to a brick-and-mortar location emphasized the advantages of the mobility and flexibility offered by the food truck business. Erica and Lori realized that continuing to focus on their core strength – gourmet burgers served from their bright pink truck – was the key to their ongoing success.

Leveraging Publicity for Growth

Another crucial lesson learned was the power of publicity in driving business growth. Even without a deal from the Sharks, the exposure gained from appearing on Shark Tank opened doors to new opportunities. Erica and Lori understood the importance of maximizing their presence in the media and utilizing their newfound recognition to expand their customer base.

“The Shark Tank experience taught us the value of leveraging our visibility. We realized that every mention of our brand is an opportunity to connect with customers and attract new ones. We made it a priority to capitalize on the publicity and continue to build our brand through various channels.”

Embracing Adaptability in a Competitive Landscape

The competitive nature of the burger business requires constant adaptation and evolution. Erica and Lori took the feedback they received on Shark Tank as constructive criticism and used it to refine their business strategy. They understood the importance of remaining flexible and open to new ideas in order to stay ahead in the market.

Expanding Beyond the Food Truck

While Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers chose to continue operating primarily from their food truck, the Shark Tank experience inspired them to explore additional avenues for growth. They recognized the potential of diversifying their business by offering catering services for private events, leveraging their brand and reputation to expand into new markets beyond their food truck locations.

Lessons Learned from the Shark Tank Experience
1. Stay true to what works – the food truck model
2. Leverage publicity for business growth
3. Embrace adaptability in a competitive landscape
4. Explore additional avenues for business expansion

Through the lessons learned from their Shark Tank experience, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers have been able to continuously adapt and grow their business. By staying true to their successful food truck model, leveraging publicity, embracing adaptability, and exploring new opportunities, they have solidified their position in the competitive burger industry.

babys bad ass burgers

Expansion and Revenue Growth

Following their appearance on Shark Tank, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers embarked on a bold expansion plan, opening six truck locations across different cities in California and Texas. This strategic move allowed them to tap into new markets and reach a wider customer base.

Their commitment to quality and innovation, combined with the unique experience of their bright pink trucks staffed by beautiful women, quickly gained traction among burger enthusiasts. As a result, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers experienced remarkable revenue growth, with an impressive annual revenue of $5 million as of August 2022.

This significant increase in revenue solidifies Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers’ position as a profitable player in the competitive burger industry. It demonstrates the strength of their food truck model and the growing demand for their delicious gourmet burgers.

burger revenue growth

Revenue Growth Comparison

YearRevenue (in millions)
2020$2.3
2021$3.6
2022 (as of August)$5

The table above illustrates the year-by-year revenue growth of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers since their appearance on Shark Tank. It highlights the consistent upward trajectory of their business, with revenue increasing significantly each year.

This remarkable expansion and revenue growth are a testament to the passion, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit of Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera. By staying true to their unique concept and focusing on customer satisfaction, they have built a profitable burger business that stands out in the market.

The Continued Success of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers

Despite not striking a deal in the Shark Tank, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers has defied the odds and emerged as a thriving and lucrative burger business. Co-founders Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera’s strategic decision to stick with their successful food truck model has played a significant role in their ongoing success. By retaining their iconic pink truck and focusing on delivering mouthwatering burgers to their customers, they have been able to maintain their unique brand identity and appeal.

In addition to their commitment to their food truck, Erica and Lori have leveraged the power of publicity to expand their reach and build a loyal customer base. Their appearance on Shark Tank garnered significant attention and enabled them to attract a larger audience to their business. With their infectious energy and delicious burgers, they have established a strong following among both locals and tourists.

The duo’s ambition and adaptability have also fueled their continued growth. By expanding their presence across multiple cities, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura, San Diego, Orange County, and Houston, Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers has tapped into new markets and capitalized on the demand for their unique gourmet delights. Their resilience in the face of challenges has demonstrated the strength and potential of their brand.

FAQ

What is Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers?

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers is a gourmet burger business known for its bright pink food truck staffed by beautiful women.

Did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers appear on Shark Tank?

Yes, Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera pitched their business on Shark Tank in season 4.

Did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers secure an investment in Shark Tank?

No, they did not secure an investment from the Sharks.

How much revenue did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers generate from their food trucks?

Over three years, the business generated sales totaling 0,000 from their food trucks.

Did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers open a brick-and-mortar store?

No, they decided to continue operating out of their iconic food truck.

How many food truck locations does Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers have?

As of August 2022, they have six food truck locations across California and Texas.

How much annual revenue does Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers have?

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers has achieved an annual revenue of million.

How did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers leverage publicity?

They utilized their appearances on shows like Shark Tank to attract customers to their food truck locations and expand their catering services.

What was the reaction of the Sharks to Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers’ brick-and-mortar plan?

The Sharks were divided in their opinions, with some believing the food truck model was the right business model, while others had concerns about the brick-and-mortar concept.

What feedback did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers receive from the Sharks?

The entrepreneurs received valuable feedback and advice from the Sharks during their pitch in Shark Tank.

How did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers continue to grow after Shark Tank?

Despite not securing a deal, they expanded their business and achieved significant revenue growth by leveraging their successful food truck model.

What sets Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers apart from other burger ventures?

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers is known for its unique combination of taste and visuals, with their bright pink truck and delicious burgers.

When was Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers founded?

Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers was founded in 2009.

What was the initial goal of Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers?

The founders wanted to create the perfect cheeseburger and serve it from their bright pink food truck.

How did Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers achieve success in the burger industry?

They gained popularity among celebrities and foodies in the greater Los Angeles area and focused on delivering a high-quality product.

What was the long-term vision for Baby’s Bad Ass Burgers?

The founders wanted to open a brick-and-mortar store for their business.

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