We’ve all dealt with annoying, itchy bug bites. Kelley Higney and Ellen McAlister saw an opportunity where most see an inconvenience. They created Bug Bite Thing, a one-of-a-kind tool that reduces the immediate allergic reaction that most of us have to bug bites. After appearing on Shark Tank and securing a deal with Lori Greiner, Bug Bite Thing has gone on to amass an impressive net worth fueled by rapid growth and expansion.
Who is the Bug Bite Thing?
Bug Bite Thing is a patented suction tool that relieves itch from bug bites and stings. To use it, you place the device directly over the affected area and pull it up on the handles, which removes the irritants underneath the skin. This immediately reduces swelling, itching, and overall discomfort. The founders, Kelley Higney and Ellen McAlister came up with the idea after Kelley moved from California to Florida and struggled with the abundance of mosquitoes. They eventually tracked down the original manufacturer in Sweden and secured an exclusive deal to sell the product in the United States.
Who Is The Founder Of Bug Bite Thing?
Bug Bite Thing was co-founded by Kelley Higney and her mother, Ellen McAlister. Kelley came up with the idea for the product after dealing with persistent mosquito issues when she moved from California to Florida. She learned about the suction tool technology from an international customer and eventually located the Swedish manufacturer to secure exclusive U.S. rights. Kelley and Ellen then started packaging and selling the product domestically, with Kelley handling the business operations and Ellen focused on marketing and sales.
How Was The Shark Tank Pitch Bug Bite Thing?
Kelley and Ellen brought Bug Bite Thing to Shark Tank during Season 11, Episode 4. Their playful and practical pitch highlighted the universal struggle with bug bites and how their simple tool provides immediate, drug-free relief.
They showcased before-and-after photos demonstrating the product’s efficacy and shared impressive sales numbers—$500,000 in the first year and $800,000 in the first five months of the current year. The sharks were intrigued, and several offered, including Lori Greiner’s “Golden Ticket” deal of $150,000 for 10% equity, which Kelley and Ellen ultimately accepted.
| Entrepreneurs | Kelley Higney and Ellen McAlister |
|---|---|
| Business | Suction tool for insect bites |
| Ask | $150,000 for 10% equity |
| Deal | Lori Greiner invested $150,000 for 10% equity |
| Other Offers | Rohan Oza: $150,000 for 10% equity |
| Barbara Corcoran: $200,000 for 10% equity | |
| Kevin O’Leary: $150,000 for 6% equity + $1 royalty/unit | |
| Result | Accepted Lori Greiner’s offer |
| Shark | Lori Greiner |
Bug Bite Thing Shark Tank Update:
The decision to partner with Lori Greiner proved to be an excellent one for Bug Bite Thing. Since appearing on Shark Tank in 2019, the company has achieved tremendous growth and success. By 2023, Bug Bite Thing had reached $21 million in total sales, and the product is now available in over 25,000 retail locations across the United States, including major chains like Target, CVS, and Amazon. In June 2023, the company also announced the acquisition of TickEase, a line of patented fine-tipped tweezers for tick removal.
What Happened To Bug Bite Thing After Shark Tank?
After striking a deal with Lori Greiner on Shark Tank, Bug Bite Thing, we experienced a surge in sales and distribution. Lori’s extensive retail connections helped the product rapidly expand into thousands of nationwide stores. The company also continued to invest in marketing and sales, growing its online presence and building relationships with major retailers. This explosive growth has led to Bug Bite Thing’s current $21 million in total sales and counting.
Bug Bite Thing Net Worth:
It’s difficult to pinpoint an exact net worth for Bug Bite Thing, as the company is privately held. However, given its impressive sales figures, widespread retail distribution, and recent acquisition of TickEase, it’s safe to say that Bug Bite Thing’s net worth is substantial. Industry experts estimate the company’s current valuation to be well into the tens of millions of dollars, if not more, making it a true success story emerging from Shark Tank.
Bug Bite Thing Growth and Operations:
The key drivers behind Bug Bite Thing’s growth have been its innovative product, strategic partnerships, and relentless focus on expanding distribution. By securing the exclusive U.S. rights to the Swedish-designed suction tool, Kelley and Ellen were able to position Bug Bite Thing as a unique, patent-protected solution in the market.
Their deal with Lori Greiner on Shark Tank propelled the product into thousands of retail locations nationwide. The company has also maintained efficient operations, with the product costing just $1.53 per unit to import and sell for $9.95.
| Sales Achievement | Reached $21 million in sales since Shark Tank |
|---|---|
| Retail Presence | Available in over 25,000 retail store locations |
| Retail Partners | Includes Target, CVS, Amazon, and other major retailers |
| Acquisition | Acquired TickEase in June 2023 |
| TickEase Description | Patented fine-tipped tweezers designed for tick removal |
Bug Bite Thing Marketing and Sales:
Fug Bite Thing has emphasized effective marketing and sales strategies, and from the beginning, Kelley and Ellen’s Shark Tank pitch effectively communicated their product’s universal appeal and benefits. They’ve continued this approach through targeted digital marketing, social media engagement, and strategic retail partnerships. Bug Bite Thing’s sales have grown exponentially, from $500,000 in the first year to $21 million since appearing on the show.
| Product Features | Suctions insect saliva to reduce swelling and itching |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Exclusive deal with Swedish manufacturer for the U.S. market |
| Import Cost per Unit | $1.53 |
| Retail Price | $9.95 |
| Initial Sales | $500,000 in the first year, $2 million projected for the second year |
| Growth | Sales increased to $800,000 in the first five months of the year after filming. |
Bug Bite Thing Social Media Presence:
Bug Bite Thing has built a solid social media presence to engage customers and promote its product. The company is active on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, sharing educational content, user testimonials, and creative marketing campaigns. This social media strategy has helped raise brand awareness and drive sales, contributing to Bug Bite Thing’s overall success and net worth.
Bug Bite Thing Interesting Facts:
- Bug Bite Thing does not have a patent on its product but rather an exclusive distribution deal with the original Swedish manufacturer.
- Co-founders Kelley Higney and Ellen McAlister are a mother-daughter duo who came up with the idea after Kelley’s move to Florida.
- The company’s acquisition of TickEase in 2023 expanded its product offering to include a solution for another common outdoor ailment.
- Despite its rapid growth, Bug Bite Thing has maintained efficient operations, costing just $1.53 per unit imported.
What’s Next For Bug Bite Thing?
As Bug Bite Thing thrives, the company will likely explore further expansion and diversification opportunities. This could include launching new products, expanding into additional retail channels, or pursuing international growth. With Lori Greiner’s guidance and the company’s proven track record of success, the future looks bright for Bug Bite Thing as it continues to build upon its impressive net worth and market dominance.
Final Words:
Bug Bite Thing’s journey from a simple solution to a multi-million-dollar success story is a testament to the power of innovation, strategic partnerships, and effective marketing. Kelley Higney and Ellen McAlister’s determination to solve a common problem has paid off handsomely, with Bug Bite Thing now boasting an enviable net worth and a growing presence across the United States. As the company looks to the future, it will be exciting to see how this itch-relieving sensation continues to evolve and expand its impact.
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