The Johnson family’s outdoor adventure company, Tailgate N Go, has achieved remarkable success since its appearance on Shark Tank in 2019. What started as a passion project to simplify the camping and tailgating experience has blossomed into a thriving business worth an estimated $2.5 million. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the story behind Tailgate N Go, its journey on Shark Tank, and the company’s impressive growth and operations.
Who is Tailgate N Go?
Tailgate N Go is a portable outdoor kitchen system created by the Johnson family – Ron, Taylor, and Kobe – from Grand Junction, Colorado. The idea for the product was born out of the family’s love for camping and their frustration with the disorganization and hassle of packing all the necessary cooking equipment for their outdoor adventures. The Tailgate N Go is a modular, 360-degree design that packs all the essential kitchen items, from food compartments to cutting boards and knife holders, into a single, compact unit.
Who Is The Founder Of Tailgate N Go?
The Tailgate N Go was the brainchild of Ron Johnson, an inventor and the patriarch of the entrepreneurial Johnson family. Recognizing the need for a more streamlined outdoor cooking solution, Ron invested $250,000 of his savings to develop and launch the business in late 2018. He enlisted the help of his two children, Taylor and Kobe, to bring the Tailgate N Go to life and drive the company’s growth.
| Company Name | Tailgate N Go |
|---|---|
| Founders | Ron Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Kobe Johnson |
| Product | Portable outdoor kitchen |
| Founded | Late 2018 |
| Headquarters | Grand Junction, Colorado |
| Revenue (2023) | Approximately $1 million |
| Valuation (2024) | $2.5 million |
| Licensing Deals | NFL and NCAA |
How Was The Shark Tank Pitch Tailgate N Go?
In 2019, the Johnson family appeared on Season 11 of Shark Tank, seeking $250,000 in exchange for a 10% equity stake in their company. The family delivered a compelling pitch, demonstrating the versatility and convenience of the Tailgate N Go product. However, the Sharks were initially hesitant due to the high production costs of over $700 per unit for a product that retailed between $1,000 and $1,500.
| Shark Tank Episode | Season 11 |
|---|---|
| Ask | $250,000 for 10% equity |
| Result | Accepted offer from Matt Higgins: $250,000 for 20% equity + $50/unit royalty |
| Other Offers | Kevin O’Leary offered $250,000 as a line of credit at 10% interest and 10% equity with a $100/unit royalty. |
Tailgate N Go Shark Tank Update:
After some back-and-forth with the Sharks, the Johnson family ultimately secured a deal with guest Shark Matt Higgins, who invested $250,000 for a 20% equity stake and a $50 per unit royalty until the investment was repaid.
What Happened To Tailgate N Go After Shark Tank?
In the months following their Shark Tank appearance, Tailgate N Go experienced a significant boost in sales, reaching $400,000, a 60% increase over their pre-show revenue. This momentum has continued, and the company is estimated to generate around $1 million in annual revenue.
Tailgate N Go Net Worth:
Thanks to its impressive sales growth and the support of investor Matt Higgins, Tailgate N Go is currently valued at an estimated $2.5 million.
| Financial Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Sales Growth Post-Shark Tank | Reached $400,000 in sales shortly after airing |
| Current Revenue | Estimated $800,000 – $1 million annually |
| Product Pricing | Ranges from $1,000 to $1,995 (NFL edition) |
| Customer Rating (Facebook) | 4.1 stars (average rating) |
Tailgate N Go Growth and Operations:
The Tailgate N Go team has been actively expanding its product offerings and distribution channels. Through its partnership with Matt Higgins, the company has secured licensing deals with the NFL and NCAA, allowing it to sell Tailgate N Go units featuring the logos and colors of professional and college sports teams.
This has helped to drive demand for its products further. Additionally, the company has introduced new accessories and customization options, enabling customers to personalize their Tailgate N Go units to better suit their outdoor needs.
Tailgate N Go Marketing and Sales:
Tailgate N Go has focused on a multi-pronged marketing strategy to reach its target audience of outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans. The company maintains an active presence on social media, particularly Facebook, where it engages with its customers and showcases the versatility of its products.
Regarding sales, Tailgate N Go has leveraged its own e-commerce platform and Amazon to make its products widely available. The company has also explored wholesale and licensing opportunities, securing deals with the NFL and NCAA to expand their reach.
Tailgate N Go Social Media Presence:
Tailgate N Go has an active Facebook page with over 11 reviews and an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. The company uses this platform to showcase its products, share customer testimonials, and engage with its growing community of outdoor enthusiasts.
Tailgate N Go Interesting Facts:
One of the most remarkable aspects of Tailgate N Go’s story is the involvement of Kobe Johnson, the youngest member of the founding family. Kobe, who is deaf, made history as the first deaf entrepreneur to appear on Shark Tank. His participation in the pitch and the company’s success inspire individuals with disabilities who aspire to become successful entrepreneurs.
What’s Next For Tailgate N Go?
As Tailgate N Go grows, the Johnson family is exploring new avenues for expansion. They seek to expand their licensing deals to reach an even wider audience of outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans. Additionally, the company is considering developing new product lines that cater to the evolving needs of its customers, further solidifying its position in the outdoor gear market.
Final Words:
Tailgate N Go’s journey from a family passion project to a thriving $2.5 million business is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and family collaboration. The Johnson family’s ability to identify a problem, create a unique solution, and secure the support of a Shark Tank investor has positioned Tailgate N Go for continued growth and success in the years to come.
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