Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar, a husband-and-wife duo, pitched their unique cheese company, Rebel Cheese, on Shark Tank Season 15.
Unlike traditional cheese brands, Rebel Cheese specializes in crafting artisan vegan cheese.
Were they able to convince the Sharks to take a bite and invest in their business?
Or,
What happened to Rebel Cheese after Shark Tank?
Find out all the details in our thorough analysis on Rebel Cheese Shark Tank update and pitch recap!
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to Rebel Cheese after Shark Tank:
Quick Summary
Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar featured on Shark Tank Season 15, securing an investment of $750,000 in exchange for 10% equity from Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban. As for the latest Rebel Cheese Shark Tank update, the business continues to operate and saw a significant increase in sales following its appearance on the show.
Table of Contents
Rebel Cheese On Shark Tank
| Shark | Result |
| Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban | Accepted deal of $750,000 for 10% equity |
| Kevin O’Leary | No Offer |
| Robert Herjavec | No Offer |
| Emma Grede | No Offer |
Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Deal
- Business: Gourmet Vegan Cheese
- Entrepreneurs: Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar
- Asked For: $750,000 for 5% equity
- Shark Tank Deal: $750,000 for 10% equity
- Sharks: Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner
Rebel Cheese Company Info
| Brand Name | Rebel Cheese |
| Official Website | rebelcheese.com |
| @rebel.cheese | |
| rebelcheese | |
| rebel-cheese | |
| Where To Buy Rebel Cheese | Buy Now |
What Is Rebel Cheese?
Founded by Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar, Rebel Cheese is an artisan cheese company that creates dairy-free, plant-based cheeses. The duo’s journey started after they transitioned to a vegan lifestyle but found themselves missing the authentic taste of high-quality cheese.
Determined to find a satisfying substitute, Kirsten and Fred took matters into their own hands and launched Rebel Cheese to fill the gap in the market.
Rebel Cheese offers over 20 varieties of vegan cheese, crafted using traditional cheese-making techniques but with 100% plant-based ingredients. Their range includes Brie, Honey Pistachio Chèvre, Pimento, Sharp Cheddar, and Sun-Dried Tomato Fermage, all designed to replicate the rich, creamy textures and flavors of traditional cheese.
Rebel Cheese quickly gained a following, making it one of the most popular vegan cheese brands in Austin, Texas, and beyond.
Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Pitch Recap
Fred Zwar and Kirsten Maitland, founders of Rebel Cheese, entered the Shark Tank with a unique offering that quickly captured the Sharks’ attention.
As a vegan couple with a love for European-style cheese-heavy picnics, they longed for authentic, artisan vegan cheese that would satisfy both texture and flavor.
Unable to find what they desired on the market, they took matters into their own hands, creating Rebel Cheese, a gourmet, plant-based cheese company aimed at delivering authentic, artisan-style vegan cheeses.
Their Rebel Cheese Shark Tank pitch started with an introduction to their unique process. Unlike many other vegan cheese brands, Rebel Cheese doesn’t cut any corners; they use traditional cheesemaking techniques, substituting dairy with plant-based ingredients to produce rich, authentic flavors.
According to Fred and Kirsten, their production process mirrors that of high-quality artisanal cheeses, resulting in a final product that could easily fool even seasoned cheese lovers.
They offer over 20 different varieties, with top sellers like Brie, Honey Pistachio Chèvre, Pimento, Sharp Cheddar, and Sun-Dried Tomato Fermage.
As the Sharks sampled these cheeses, the response was overwhelmingly positive. Most of the Sharks were genuinely impressed, though guest shark Emma Grede expressed some reservations about the texture.
Nevertheless, the overall consensus was that Rebel Cheese had achieved a remarkably realistic, high-quality product that stood out in the competitive vegan cheese market.
Rebel Cheese’s Business Model and Sales Channels
Fred and Kirsten then delved into the operational side of their business, sharing details about their newly established production facility, capable of producing up to 8 million wheels of cheese per year.
Rebel Cheese business model relies on three key sales channels:
- E-Commerce & Subscription Services: Comprising about 16% of their sales, Rebel Cheese offers online ordering options and subscription services for loyal customers. This model proved particularly useful during the COVID-19 pandemic when e-commerce demand surged.
- Wholesale Partnerships: Representing roughly 17% of their business, this channel involves selling their cheese through various retailers, including over 100 retail locations. While they’ve received interest from Whole Foods, Kirsten and Fred decided to focus on scaling sustainably before taking on such large accounts.
- Rebel Cheese Restaurant in Austin, Texas: With 65% of their revenue derived from their restaurant, Rebel Cheese offers customers a dedicated place to experience their products. This location has become a destination for vegan cheese lovers looking to enjoy gourmet cheese in a casual setting.
During the pandemic, they quickly pivoted to expand their e-commerce presence and successfully placed their products in over 100 retail locations. Whole Foods even approached them for distribution, but the duo held back, preferring to grow sustainably rather than rush into a large account they weren’t fully prepared for.
Financials and Sharks’ Queries For Shark Tank Rebel Cheese Pitch
During their pitch, Kevin O’Leary honed in on the product’s base ingredients, specifically asking if they used cashews, which are common in vegan cheese.
Kirsten explained that while cashews are sometimes used, Rebel Cheese relies on a variety of high-quality, plant-based ingredients, setting them apart from the rest of the industry.
She also highlighted that Rebel Cheese had reached a standard of excellence unmatched by other vegan cheese brands.
The, Kevin O’Leary raised questions about pricing, specifically asking how their vegan Brie compared cost-wise to a high-end traditional Brie.
Fred explained that each wheel costs them around $4.67 to produce, which they wholesale for $9, with a retail price ranging from $15 to $20. Traditional high-end Brie sells in the same price range, typically between $10 and $20 per wheel, making Rebel Cheese a comparable but plant-based alternative.
Sales numbers were another point of interest. In the year prior to filming, Rebel Cheese brought in $2.5 million, and they projected $3.5 million for the current year. Although they had achieved profitability, the investment in their new facility meant they expected to break even for the year.
They outlined their ambitious goal of expanding to over 500 retail stores in the next year, and with that growth in mind, they asked the Sharks for investment.
Sharks’ Offers For Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Pitch
Kevin O’Leary was the first to make his position clear, ultimately deciding to pass on the deal. He voiced concerns about the company’s high valuation, stating that it didn’t align with his investment principles.
His exit left the founders slightly deflated, but their prospects were quickly revived when Mark Cuban made an offer: $750,000 in exchange for a 10% equity stake in the business.
Before they could respond, Lori Greiner jumped in, expressing her enthusiasm for Rebel Cheese.
Lori, already invested in the cheese and charcuterie space through her stake in Boarderie, proposed partnering with Mark, stating that their combined expertise and resources would elevate Rebel Cheese’s potential.
Together, Mark and Lori formally offered $750,000 for a 10% equity stake.
Robert Herjavec and Emma Grede, meanwhile, decided to pass on the investment. Robert admitted that cheese wasn’t his area of interest, while Emma felt that the product didn’t appeal to her palate.
With only Mark and Lori left in the deal, Fred and Kirsten seized the opportunity to negotiate.
Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Deal
Their first counteroffer was $750,000 for a reduced 6% equity, which Mark and Lori promptly declined. Hoping to reach a middle ground, Kirsten then proposed a $1 million investment in exchange for 10% equity.
Mark and Lori, however, stood firm on their original offer.
As negotiations continued, Fred and Kirsten began to feel the pressure to accept or potentially risk losing the deal entirely. Realizing that this was likely the best opportunity they’d get, they agreed to the terms, securing $750,000 in exchange for 10% equity with two powerhouse Sharks by their side.
The Rebel Cheese pitch ended on a high note, with Kirsten and Fred optimistic about their partnership with Mark and Lori and excited to scale their business further.
Their strategic choice to accept the Sharks’ offer sets the stage for Rebel Cheese to break new ground in the artisan vegan cheese industry.
With their new partners, Fred and Kirsten are now better positioned to achieve their ambitious goal of expanding into 500 retail locations and beyond.
What happened to Rebel Cheese following Shark Tank? Keep reading our Rebel Cheese update to find out!
Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Update: What Happened After Shark Tank?
So, what happened to Rebel Cheese after Shark Tank?
Well, in terms of the latest Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Update: The Rebel Cheese episode of Shark Tank sparked significant interest in the brand.
Following the show, Rebel Cheese experienced a surge in sales, a common phenomenon known as the “Shark Tank effect”. Their website now features custom “Lori’s Box” and “Mark’s Box” options, suggesting that the partnership with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner went through successfully.
This collaboration has already boosted their visibility, and fans of Rebel Cheese are excited to see where this partnership leads.
Since appearing on the show, Rebel Cheese has continued to focus on expanding its presence in retail locations while exploring collaborations with Boarderie to introduce vegan-friendly options on charcuterie boards.
The company also has a growing social media presence, particularly on Instagram, where they showcase their products, educate followers about veganism, and share behind-the-scenes glimpses of their journey.
Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Net Worth
At the time of their Shark Tank pitch, Rebel Cheese had an impressive annual revenue, generating $2.5 million in the previous year and projecting $3.5 million for the current year.
Despite substantial earnings, the company was reinvesting heavily into expansion, particularly with their new production facility capable of producing up to 8 million wheels of cheese per year.
This investment was aimed at meeting the growing demand for vegan artisan cheese and scaling to over 500 retail locations in the near future.
Based on these revenue figures and the Sharks’ agreed valuation, Rebel Cheese was valued at approximately $7.5 million following the deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner.
This valuation reflects both the current revenue potential and the ambitious growth plans that the company presented. The partnership with Mark and Lori brings Rebel Cheese valuable expertise and resources, putting them in a strong position to expand and potentially increase their net worth significantly over the coming years.
Did Rebel Cheese Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Yes, Rebel Cheese successfully secured a deal on Shark Tank!
After a competitive pitch, founders Fred Zwar and Kirsten Maitland received an offer from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, who were impressed by the product’s authentic taste and ambitious goals.
The duo offered $750,000 in exchange for 10% equity, an offer that Fred and Kirsten initially countered but eventually accepted, recognizing the value of partnering with two influential Sharks.
Despite some initial hesitation from other Sharks, including Kevin O’Leary, who passed due to valuation concerns, the founders ultimately struck a deal that aligned with their vision.
With Mark and Lori’s support, Rebel Cheese is well-positioned to expand its presence in the vegan cheese market and pursue its goal of reaching 500 retail stores.
Rebel Cheese Reviews
Rebel Cheese has garnered positive reviews from both vegans and non-vegans alike for its remarkable authenticity in taste and texture.
Many customers praise the brand’s ability to replicate the richness of traditional cheeses, noting favorites like their Brie and Honey Pistachio Chèvre as standout flavors.
Customers often describe the cheese as “deceptively real,” with a quality that rivals traditional dairy options, which has earned Rebel Cheese a loyal following in the plant-based community.
On the other hand, some feedback highlights mixed opinions regarding texture, as a few customers find the consistency slightly different from dairy-based cheese. However, the brand’s commitment to using authentic artisanal techniques and high-quality, plant-based ingredients resonates with the majority of consumers.
Overall, Rebel Cheese has managed to impress cheese lovers and skeptics alike, quickly becoming a go-to for gourmet vegan cheese.
Where To Buy Rebel Cheese?
Rebel Cheese offers several convenient purchasing options for their gourmet vegan cheeses. Customers can buy directly from their website, where they provide an extensive selection of flavors through both one-time purchases and subscription options.
This online store ships nationwide, allowing vegan cheese enthusiasts across the U.S. to enjoy their artisanal offerings.
For those in Austin, Texas, Rebel Cheese operates a flagship restaurant that showcases their cheeses alongside a full vegan menu. Additionally, the brand is available in over 100 retail locations across the country.
As they continue expanding, they aim to increase their retail footprint, making their products even more accessible to vegan and non-vegan cheese lovers alike.
The Future Of Rebel Cheese: What’s Next?
With a facility capable of producing millions of cheese wheels per year, Rebel Cheese is well-positioned for growth. They aim to expand to over 500 retail stores within the next year, with a long-term goal of becoming a leading name in the vegan cheese market.
The growing demand for plant-based foods aligns with their mission, and with the support of sharks like Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, Rebel Cheese has the resources and mentorship needed to make a significant impact in the vegan food industry.
Their plans also include diversifying their product line to introduce more flavors and textures, catering to an even wider audience of cheese lovers.
FAQs On Rebel Cheese Shark Tank Update Today
Who Owns Rebel Cheese?
Rebel Cheese is owned by husband-and-wife duo Fred Zwar and Kirsten Maitland. The couple, passionate about creating authentic vegan cheese alternatives, founded the company to bring gourmet, plant-based cheeses to the market.
Did Rebel Cheese Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Yes, Rebel Cheese secured a deal on Shark Tank. Founders Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar accepted an offer from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner for $750,000 in exchange for 10% equity after several rounds of negotiation. This partnership promises to support their ambitious growth goals.
Is Rebel Cheese Still In Business?
Yes, Rebel Cheese is still in business. The company continues to thrive, selling its artisan vegan cheeses online, in retail stores, and at its restaurant in Austin, Texas. Since appearing on Shark Tank, Rebel Cheese has expanded its offerings and grown its customer base nationwide.
What Happened To Rebel Cheese After Shark Tank?
After appearing on Shark Tank, Rebel Cheese experienced a significant boost in visibility and sales. The couple, Fred and Kirsten, secured a deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner for $750,000 in exchange for 10% equity.
Following the show, they expanded their reach with custom product offerings and continue to grow their retail presence, including in over 100 locations across the U.S.
Conclusion: Rebel Cheese After Shark Tank
In this Rebel Cheese Shark Tank update, Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar’s journey demonstrates the power of innovation in plant-based foods.
Their dedication to creating high-quality, authentic vegan cheese has not only impressed the Shark Tank investors but has also captured the hearts of vegan and dairy consumers alike.
With their sights set on further expansion and partnerships, Rebel Cheese is poised to become a staple in vegan households. Their story serves as inspiration for anyone looking to make a positive impact in the food industry through sustainable, animal-free products.
Whether you’re a committed vegan or just curious to try plant-based alternatives, Rebel Cheese offers a taste experience that could change your perception of vegan cheese forever.
As the brand grows, we’ll share the latest Rebel Cheese Updates and any exciting new developments!
In the meantime, you can check out more Company Updates on Shark Tank Season 15 Episode 9 by clicking on the links below:
- The Pocket Panty After Shark Tank Update
- FlyWithWine After Shark Tank Update
- CAKES body After Shark Tank Update
Before you go, make sure to visit our Season 15 Company Updates Page, All Company Updates Page and Shark Tank All Products Page for more information on various companies and products featured in the Show.
At the same time, you can FOLLOW our blog to get the latest updates on businesses featured in Shark Tank Show. And, if you have any questions, you can send us message at your convenience.
Lastly, you can check out more Company Updates for the businesses featured in Shark Tank Season 14 by visiting our Season 14 Company Updates Page.
Leave a Reply