What Happened to Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky After Shark Tank?
What is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is a company that offers flavored beef jerky, the most popular of which are chili and lime. Their product is preservative and chemical-free, allowing it to last longer and use locally produced beef.
They are sold individually in 2.5 oz—packets or bulk batches of 10 at a discounted price.
William Howell founded the company in the late 1990s, which was later taken over by his son Kenneth Howell.
Kenneth adopted a more strategic corporate approach to its functioning under his reign. Kenneth, sadly, died of cancer in May 2014.
Jeffrey Harris, a former classmate of Kenneth’s who previously worked on the marketing side of the firm and regularly updated their website, is now in charge of the company.
The business has regained its footing despite some early challenges, and Jeffrey remains president.
Who is the founder of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
William Howell founded the company in the late 1990s, which was later taken over by his son Kenneth Howell. Ken Howell is a man who has been through a lot in his life before deciding how he will conquer his sorrows and go forward.
Shortly after Howell’s father died, so did his nephew and wife. Ken’s unexpected triple defeat pushed him into a depressed state.
For a time, he struggled to decide what he wanted to do with his life, but he found peace and strength in the family business that his father had left behind.
Howell’s father created the recipe, which has been passed down through the family ever since. The jerky has a two-month shelf life due to the lack of additives and preservatives.
Along the way, Howell experienced several challenges. His father died before his son could find success. Soon after, he lost a nephew, followed by his wife.
After a brief moment of sadness, Howell returned to his father’s business, determined to honor his father’s memory by earning national acclaim for the family recipe.
What Happened to Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky at Shark Tank pitch?
Ken Howell makes his Shark Tank debut on episode 204 with his product, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky. He desires the assistance of a Shark in marketing and distribution.
Howell approached the Shark Tank seeking $25,000 in exchange for a 20% stake in his business, which was worth $125,000.
He has sold his Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky at sporting events and other local specialized markets up to this point.
He opens his presentation by handing out samples and claims that his jerky is superior to commercial jerky, without the dry, harsh texture and chemical aftertaste associated with additives.
Even Jeff Foxworthy, who makes his jerky, praises the product, describing it as “quite nice.”
The Sharks like his enthusiasm and confidence, but they’re more interested in the stats.
Daymond John takes the initiative, inquiring about sales. Howell claims that his sales peaked at $100,000 per year during the firm’s height. Sales had dwindled to $50,000, owing entirely to his losses. The Sharks regarded this with suspicion.
Robert Herjavec is interested in learning about Howell’s expansion ambitions. He is doubtful of Howell’s assumption that each new geographical market will require a new processing plant costing $60,000 apiece.
Herjavec notes that Howell has been in business for ten years and could not earn a livelihood from it. According to Herjavec, “every desire has a shelf life. This was not a business that can be invested in.” He went out.
According to Daymond John, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky was a “little company, not an investment.” He went out too.
Kevin O’Leary was a fan of the narrative, yet he refers to the company as a “little regional brand.” “An indie brand.” He also went out.
Barbara Corcoran and Jeff Foxworthy were the only remaining sharks. Foxworthy informs Howell that he has a fantastic product. He feels Howell can earn a comfortable living from his business. He went out since he was a competitor.
Barbara Corcoran concurs with Foxworthy’s compliments but believes the firm was too tiny to warrant a Shark investment. She finally exits. Howell exits the Shark Tank empty-handed.
What Happened to Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky After Shark Tank?
The company reaped the advantages of the well-known “Shark Tank effect,” receiving more orders than they could fulfill in the weeks and months after the episode’s premiere.
The “little, regional” brand was doomed to greatness. Ken Howell’s wish, however, did not come true. He passed away in May 2014, only a few months after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
Despite the efforts of his survivors, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky does not appear to have survived the loss of its heart and soul.
Howell’s close friend, Jeff Harris, kept the company running following a brief hiatus.
Harris, who has a background in marketing, has always been an active player in the firm. He avoids direct sales, unlike the flashy Howell.
He concentrates on internet sales, relationships with a few local businesses, and his Fayetteville retail store. He notes an uptick in sales every time the show airs.
The company is still in operation as of February 2022, with yearly sales ranging between $500,000 and $1 million.
Competitors of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky’s main competitors in the market include Beef Jerky Outlet, Philly Beef Jerky, and Jerky.com.
Net Worth of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky
During and after the pitch, the firm was valued at $125,000.
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Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky FAQs
What is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is a company that offers flavored beef jerky, the most popular of which is chili and lime. Their product is preservative and chemical-free, allowing it to last longer and use locally produced beef.
Who is the founder?
Ken Howell, the founder of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky, is a Fayetteville entrepreneur with a history in the business.
How much did Ken ask for on Shark Tank?
Ken was asking for $25,000 for a 20% stake in his firm, which was worth $125,000.
Did Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky have the deal?
Ken, on the other hand, did not have the deal.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky still in business?
Yes, the company is still in operation as of February 2022.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky a lucrative business?
The company is now successful; however, they have focused on other initiatives instead.
Where is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky based?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky’s headquarters are in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Ken Howell and his family are North Carolina natives.
Where can I get Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Customers may buy Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky at their retail location.
What is the price of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
The price of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky varies depending on the style and flavor purchased. They can buy it in bulk or individually.
What does Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky taste like?
The flavor is light and juicy, with a nice smooth but not greasy texture.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky FDA approved?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky has no chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky free of gluten?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky has no gluten.
What is the cost of shipping for Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
The customer’s location determines the shipping cost for Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky Kosher meat?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is, indeed, kosher.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky devoid of sugar?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is, in fact, sugar-free.
Does Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky accept PayPal?
Yes, customers can purchase Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky using their PayPal account. To do so, go to their website and place the item in their shopping basket. Now, pick PayPal as the payment method and fill out the form below with the quantity of the item that the client has chosen.
What are the components in Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is handcrafted without preservatives or chemicals. It is comprised entirely of natural components and beef products.
