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What happened to Off the Cob Chips after Shark Tank?
Tortilla chips are a popular snack that many people find hard to resist. But what if there was a way to make these tasty treats even better? That’s the question farmer and entrepreneur Cameron Sheldrake asked himself. He came up with the idea of using freshly picked corn to create a new kind of tortilla chip, which he branded as Off the Cob Tortilla Chips.
A unique approach to making tortilla chips
Most tortilla chips on the market are made from grain corn, a starchier and less sweet variety. But Sheldrake decided to take a different approach. He used only fresh-picked sweet corn from his family-owned farm in Ithaca, New York. This choice resulted in chips with less starch and more natural, better-tasting flavors.
Enter the world of Shark Tank
In 2014, Sheldrake appeared on the popular television show “Shark Tank” to seek funding and exposure for Off the Cob Tortilla Chips. During his pitch, he asked for $100,000 in exchange for a 15% stake in the company. Sheldrake impressed the panel of investors by highlighting the differences between grain and corn and offering them a taste of his delicious chips.
While some of the Sharks, such as Lori Greiner, were enthusiastic about the product, the high cost of using corn and the difficult profit margins scared off investors. In the end, Sheldrake left the tank without a deal.
Post-Shark Tank success
Despite not securing a deal on the show, Off the Cob Chips experienced a surge in popularity and sales. The exposure from “Shark Tank” led to a significant increase in orders, doubling the company’s business in just two weeks. This sudden spike in demand temporarily depleted the company’s inventory for two months.
Off the Cob Chips continued to thrive beyond the initial “Shark Tank” boost. By 2018, the chips were available in more than 300 grocery stores and could be purchased directly from the company’s website. The company’s annual sales also increased sixfold from before the show.
The demise of off-the-cob chips
Sadly, as of 2024, Off the Cob Chips is no longer in business. The company’s official website has been taken down, and its products are no longer stocked in grocery stores or available on major online platforms like Amazon.
While no official reason was given for the company’s closure, it is speculated that the high costs associated with using fresh, organic sweet corn played a significant role. The unique preservation, processing, and manufacturing requirements of fresh-shelled sweet corn likely increased production costs, making it difficult to maintain competitive pricing.
In addition, while Off the Cob Chips offered a high-quality product, some consumers may have found it difficult to justify the premium price, as tortilla chips are often seen as an affordable vehicle for dips and salsas.
Cameron Sheldrake’s Future
Although Off the Cob Chips may have come to an end, Cameron Sheldrake’s entrepreneurial journey continues. His LinkedIn profile still lists him as president of Sweet Corn Tortilla Chips, Inc. It is possible that Sheldrake has returned to full-time farming to support his family farm in Ithaca, New York.
Although Off the Cob Chips is no longer available, its story is a testament to the power of innovation and the challenges faced by small businesses in the competitive snack industry. The company’s unique approach to making tortilla chips from fresh corn captured the attention of consumers and investors alike, demonstrating the potential for reinventing classic snacks with high-quality ingredients.
In the end, Off the Cob Chips may have had a brief moment in the spotlight, but its impact on the industry and the entrepreneurial journey of Cameron Sheldrake will not be forgotten.
FAQS
What makes Off the Cob Chips unique from other tortilla chips?
Off the Cob Chips use freshly picked sweet corn instead of grain corn, resulting in a chip with less starch and more natural, better tasting flavors.
Did Off the Cob Chips get a deal on Shark Tank?
No, despite positive feedback from some of the Sharks, Off the Cob Chips did not secure a deal on the show.
What impact did appearing on Shark Tank have on Off the Cob Chips?
The exposure from Shark Tank led to a significant increase in orders, with Off the Cob Chips doubling its business in just two weeks.
Why did Off the Cob Chips go out of business?
While no official reason was given, it is speculated that the high costs associated with using fresh, organic corn and the challenge of maintaining competitive pricing played a significant role in the company’s closure.
Where can I still find Off the Cob Chips?
As of 2023, Off the Cob Chips will no longer be available. The company’s official website has been taken down, and their products are no longer stocked in grocery stores or available on major online platforms.
What is the current status of Cameron Sheldrake, the founder of Off the Cob Chips?
While specific details are not available, it is possible that Cameron Sheldrake has returned to full-time farming to support his family farm in Ithaca, New York.