Calm Strips is a simple yet innovative product that aims to help people cope with stress, anxiety, and fidgeting by providing a textured surface to touch, scratch, or rub. The strips are made of durable vinyl polymer and come in two textures: Soft Sand and River Rocks. They also feature soothing designs and colors that can be applied to any smooth surface, such as phones, laptops, desks, or bed frames.
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Who is the founder of Calm Strips?
Calm Strips was founded by Michael Malkin and Luce Fuller, who both worked at an Apple store in Newport News, Virginia. Malkin suffered from social anxiety and needed a discreet way to calm himself down while working with customers. He tried various methods, such as fidget spinners, painter’s tape, or imaginary drums, but none of them were satisfactory. He came up with the idea of Calm Strips after noticing how he enjoyed scratching a textured sticker on his phone case.
Malkin and Fuller started the business in their home, packing orders on their living room sofa. They soon realized the potential of their product and decided to pitch it on Shark Tank in January 2022. They asked for $250,000 for 10% of their company, which had already made $2.5 million in sales before appearing on the show.
The sharks were impressed by the simplicity and effectiveness of Calm Strips, especially Robert Herjavec, who had several autistic family members who could benefit from the product. Herjavec offered $250,000 for a royalty deal: he would get $2.50 per unit until he recouped his investment, then $1.50 per unit until he reached $750,000. Malkin and Fuller accepted the deal and became partners with Herjavec.
Calm Strips Update 2024
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Calm Strips |
| Founder | Michael Malkin and Luce Fuller |
| Founded | Apr 2020 |
| Product | textured sensory adhesive |
| Asked For | $250k for 10% Equity |
| Final Deal | $250k for $2.5 per unit until $250k is recouped, then $1.50 until $750k is paid |
| Shark | Robert Herjavec |
| Episode (Shark Tank USA) | S13 E13 |
| Air Date | Jan 28, 2022 |
| Business Status | In Business |
| Website | CALM STRIPS |
| Headquarters | Newport News, Virginia, US |
| Net Worth 2024 | $3M |
| Buy and Watch | Buy Now | Amazon Prime |
Is Calm Strips still in business?
Calm Strips are still available online and in select retail stores. They are also working on developing new products that can help people with sensory issues, such as Calm Pads and Calm Bands. The founders of Calm Strips are grateful for the opportunity that Shark Tank gave them and hope to continue growing their business and helping people cope with stress.
After Shark Tank, Calm Strips experienced a surge in demand and exposure. The founders told ABC Action News that they were overwhelmed by the response and had to hire more staff and move to a bigger office. They also expanded their product line to include more designs, textures, and sizes. They launched education packs for classrooms and schools and wholesale options for retailers. They also made their product available on Amazon and Walmart.
Calm Strips continues to grow and help people of all ages and backgrounds cope with stress, anxiety, and fidgeting. The product has received positive reviews from customers who praise its quality, durability, and calming effect. Calm Strips has also received recognition from various media outlets, such as Looper, All Shark Tank Products, Zac Johnson, Shark Tank Recap, and Hello Wonderful.
Calm Strips is a success story that shows how a simple idea can turn into a profitable business with the help of Shark Tank and a passionate team. Malkin and Fuller have created a product that not only solves their problem but also helps millions of people around the world.
Calm Strips Shark Tank Net Worth 2024
Calm Strips net worth is $3 million as of 2024, and they have an annual revenue of $10 million. Calm Strips is a success story of turning anxiety relief into a multi-million dollar business.