In 2007, Hector Saldivar relocated from Mexico to the United States, bringing with him his mother’s homemade hot sauce.
His friends immediately loved it, but they struggled to find anything similar in stores, especially when it came to healthier Mexican food alternatives.
Recognizing a business opportunity, Hector founded Tia Lupita Foods, which specializes in cactus-based tortillas and chips that are low in both calories and carbs.
Did Tia Lupita Foods get a deal on Shark Tank?
Find out all the details in our Tia Lupita Shark Tank update and pitch recap…
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to Tia Lupita after Shark Tank:
Quick Summary
Hector Saldivar appeared on Shark Tank Season 14, asking $500,000 in exchange for a 5% stake in his Mexican-inspired health food brand. Following his Tia Lupita Shark tank Pitch, he struck a deal with Kevin O’Leary for $500,000 as a line of credit, with a 12.5% interest rate and a non-dilutable 5% equity.
As for the latest Tia Lupita Foods Shark Tank update, the company significantly grew its retail presence, landing placements in more than 5,000 stores. Additionally, they secured further seed funding and launched innovative new products, including grain-free tortillas and Salsa Macha.
Table of Contents
Tia Lupita On Shark Tank
| Shark | Result |
| Kevin O’Leary | Accepted offer of $500,000 as a line of credit at a 12.5% interest rate for a non-dilutable 5% equity. |
| Daymond John | No Offer |
| Lori Greiner | No Offer |
| Mark Cuban | No Offer |
| Barbara Corcoran | No Offer |
Tia Lupita Shark Tank Deal
- Business: Mexican-inspired health food brand
- Entrepreneur: Hector Saldivar
- Asked For: $500,000 for 5% equity
- Shark Tank Deal: $500,000 as a line of credit at a 12.5% interest rate for a non-dilutable 5% equity
- Shark: Kevin O’Leary
Tia Lupita Company Info
Tia Lupita Foods Overview
Tia Lupita Foods is a brand that combines the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine with the benefits of healthy eating.
Hector Saldivar, the founder, moved from Mexico to the U.S. in 2007, bringing with him his mother’s homemade hot sauce—a recipe that quickly became popular among his friends.
However, Hector noticed a significant gap in the market: there were no healthy Mexican food options that still provided the same delicious, vibrant flavors.
Determined to fill this void, Hector founded Tia Lupita Foods, focusing on cactus-based products like tortillas and chips. These products are low in calories, carbs, and made from sustainably sourced ingredients, particularly cactus—a plant known for its nutritional benefits.
Hector’s mission was simple: prove that Mexican food can be healthy without sacrificing taste.
With products such as corn and cactus tortillas and cassava and cactus tortillas, Hector was setting out to revolutionize the way people think about Mexican cuisine.
His passion for authentic, health-conscious food became the foundation of Tia Lupita Foods, and it caught the attention of the Shark Tank panel.
Tia Lupita Shark Tank Pitch Recap
Hector Saldivar, the founder of Tia Lupita Foods, entered the Shark Tank looking to secure funding for his business that aims to revolutionize the perception of Mexican food as unhealthy.
Through Tia Lupita, Hector intends to prove that healthy food can still offer the delicious, authentic Mexican flavors people love, without compromising on health.
Shark Tank Tia Lupita Pitch
Hector began his pitch by emphasizing his mission to change the way people view Mexican food. He wanted to offer healthier alternatives that maintain the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine, which is often associated with unhealthy ingredients due to the use of excessive fats, sugars, and artificial additives in many products.
Hector’s solution? Tia Lupita Foods, a brand centered around creating healthier options such as cactus-based tortillas and chips.
Tia Lupita Foods incorporates sustainable ingredients like cactus, a highly nutritious and low-calorie plant, into tortillas and chips, making them a healthier option compared to traditional tortillas made from corn or wheat.
Hector specifically offers two varieties of tortillas: Corn & Cactus Tortillas and Cassava & Cactus Tortillas. His company aims to cater to health-conscious consumers who still want to enjoy the bold, authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Tia Lupita Foods Sales And Cost Breakdown
Hector goes on to provide key details about the business’s growth and financial standing.
He reveals impressive sales figures for the past few years:
- $900,000 in sales in 2020
- $1.5 million in sales in 2021
- Hector projected $4 million in sales for 2022.
While the business was growing, Hector also shared the challenges he faced due to slotting fees, which are the costs associated with getting shelf space in major retail stores.
In 2020, Hector lost $700,000, and the following year, the losses increased to $1.2 million in 2021. These financial setbacks were primarily due to these costly slotting fees, but Hector remained hopeful, especially after having his first profitable month recently.
Tia Lupita Foods has already gained significant retail distribution, with products available in well-known stores like Sprouts, Whole Foods, and Walmart.
Hector is actively working on expanding into even more major retail chains like Target and Publix, showing his commitment to expanding the brand’s reach.
Hector reveals that his products cost about $0.50 to produce and retail for $3.99 to $4.99, leaving room for strong profit margins.
Sharks’ Reactions On Tia Lupita Taste
As Hector pitches his brand, he offered the Sharks a taste of his products. The Sharks are impressed by the flavor, though there’s a slight issue with one of the samples.
Mark Cuban enjoyed the tortilla but found the salsa too spicy for his taste. Despite the minor setback, the Sharks continued to engage with Hector and asked more questions about his business’s current status and future potential.
Sharks’ Offers For Tia Lupita Shark Tank Pitch
As Hector’s pitch progresses, the Sharks begin to evaluate the business and provide their offers.
Daymond John’s Exit
Daymond John, one of the show’s most seasoned investors, was the first Shark to bow out. He admitted that although Hector’s business has great potential, he’s simply not passionate about the food industry. Daymond’s decision to step away was a direct reflection of his lack of personal interest in the space.
Barbara Corcoran’s Reasoning
Next, Barbara Corcoran expressed concern over the amount of money Hector was asking for. While she believed in the product, she thought that $500,000 won’t make a significant difference for the business. She stepped away from the deal, stating that the investment wouldn’t be enough to move the needle for Hector’s expansion efforts.
Mark Cuban’s Exit
Mark Cuban enjoyed the tortillas but ultimately decided the business is “too tough” due to the nature of the retail food industry. The high slotting fees and razor-thin margins were factors Mark believes are too challenging for Hector to overcome. He exited, offering no deal.
Kevin O’Leary’s Offer
Kevin O’Leary, also known as “Mr. Wonderful,” was the next Shark to engage with Hector. Kevin was particularly interested in the fact that Tia Lupita Foods offers grain-free products, which he believed is a growing trend in the health food space.
Impressed by Hector’s resilience and vision, Kevin offered $500,000 in exchange for 12% equity in the business. However, there’s a catch: Kevin wanted this deal structured as a loan at 12% interest for 36 months, which was quite a substantial financial commitment for Hector to consider.
Did Tia Lupita Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Hector, being aware that the terms offered by Kevin may not be the most ideal, decided to counter-offer. He acknowledged Kevin’s interest but pushed for a more favorable deal for himself.
Hector negotiated for $500,000 as a line of credit at 12.5% interest, which would allow him more flexibility in managing the funds. He also insisted on maintaining 5% equity in the company, arguing that the loan structure is already a significant commitment.
Kevin agreed to the terms of Hector’s counter-offer. The deal was struck at $500,000 in the form of a line of credit at 12.5% interest, plus 5% non-dilutable equity.
Hector secured the deal he was hoping for, which will enable him to cover the high slotting fees and expanded Tia Lupita Foods to more retail shelves.
This partnership with Kevin O’Leary positioned Tia Lupita Foods for even greater success in the coming years, helping Hector reach his goal of becoming a household name in the healthy Mexican food market.
What happened to Tia Lupita Foods following the Shark Tank Show? Keep reading our Tia Lupita Foods update to find out.
Tia Lupita Shark Tank Update
So, what happened to Tia Lupita after Shark Tank?
According to the latest Tia Lupita Shark Tank Update: Since Tia Lupita Foods’s appearance on Shark Tank, the company has experienced incredible growth and success.
The deal with Kevin O’Leary was a major turning point for the brand, and the exposure from the show provided a significant boost.
Post-Shark Tank Growth
After airing, Tia Lupita Foods saw a massive spike in website traffic. Between April 14 and April 19, just after the episode aired, the company’s website attracted around 30,000 visitors—up from the typical 1,500 weekly visitors. This surge in interest reflected the brand’s growing popularity and the impact of the Shark Tank appearance.
Thanks to Kevin O’Leary’s support and the increased visibility, Tia Lupita Foods expanded its presence in major retail stores across the U.S. Products began to appear in national chains such as Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, Walmart, and even Costco Wholesale Canada and Save-On-Foods. The company’s footprint grew rapidly, making its healthy Mexican food products available to a broader audience.
In addition to retail expansion, Tia Lupita Foods was featured on The Today Show as one of the best small business brands to support, further cementing its status as a standout brand in the food industry.
Major Milestones in 2023
In October 2023, Tia Lupita Foods secured a significant funding round, raising $2.6 million in seed funding. The investment was led by Santatera Capital and GBM Ventures, two prominent Mexican investment firms. This funding allowed Hector to continue expanding the product line, including the addition of two varieties of Salsa Macha—a traditional Mexican sauce with rich, bold flavors.
By the end of 2023, Tia Lupita Foods was available in over 5,000 retail stores across the United States, including major chains like Walmart, Whole Foods, and Target. The brand’s wide reach meant that even more consumers could enjoy its healthy, delicious Mexican food products.
Tia Lupita Today and Beyond
As of late 2023, Hector Saldivar and Tia Lupita Foods are riding high on their post-Shark Tank success. The brand’s growth has been steady, with a strong foothold in the retail market and a loyal customer base. Hector’s vision for making healthy Mexican food a household staple is becoming a reality, and the company’s future looks promising.
Consumers can continue to enjoy the full range of Tia Lupita Foods products through its website, where they can purchase tortillas, chips, and salsa directly. With plans to expand further and introduce more innovative products, Hector’s journey is just getting started.
Tia Lupita Foods Net Worth
During Hector Saldivar’s Shark Tank pitch, Tia Lupita Foods was valued at approximately $10 million based on the $500,000 investment offer for 5% equity from Kevin O’Leary.
Despite facing challenges such as high slotting fees and initial financial losses, the company demonstrated rapid growth, with $900,000 in sales in 2020 and a projected $4 million in 2022.
The company’s unique focus on cactus-based tortillas and chips has allowed it to secure distribution in major retailers like Whole Foods, Walmart, and Sprouts, further solidifying its position in the health food market.
As of now, Tia Lupita Foods’ net worth can be estimated to be at least $10 million, potentially higher given its expanding retail presence and increasing consumer demand.
With $1.9 million raised and growing sales figures, Hector’s company is on track to see significant future growth, especially after securing a deal with Kevin O’Leary to help expand its distribution.
Is Tia Lupita Foods Still In Business?
Yes, Tia Lupita Foods is still in business and thriving.
Following its appearance on Shark Tank, the company has expanded its retail presence significantly, with its products now available in over 5,000 stores across the United States, including major chains like Walmart, Whole Foods, Target, and Publix.
Additionally, Tia Lupita Foods has also entered the Canadian market, with its products sold in Costco Wholesale Canada and Save-On-Foods, further solidifying its international presence.
The company continues to innovate and grow, recently securing $2.6 million in seed funding in late 2023 from investors like Santatera Capital and GBM Ventures.
With a growing product line, including its popular cactus-based tortillas, chips, and new salsa varieties, Tia Lupita Foods is on a strong trajectory, ensuring its mission to bring healthier, authentic Mexican-inspired food to more households worldwide.
Tia Lupita Foods Reviews
Tia Lupita Foods has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its innovative and healthy approach to traditional Mexican cuisine.
Customers appreciate the brand’s use of cactus-based ingredients, which offer a unique flavor and a healthier alternative to conventional tortillas and chips.
Many consumers rave about the grain-free and gluten-free options, particularly the cassava and cactus tortillas, which cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Additionally, the products are praised for their rich, authentic taste, with some highlighting that they never compromise on flavor despite being low in calories and carbs.
On the other hand, a few reviews mention that the salsa might be too spicy for milder palates, as noted by Mark Cuban during the Shark Tank pitch. However, for spice lovers, the bold flavors of the salsas and other products are a standout.
Retail partners like Whole Foods and Sprouts have further validated the quality of the brand, showcasing its wide appeal in the health-conscious market.
Overall, Tia Lupita Foods has built a loyal fan base that values both the taste and health benefits of its products.
Where To Buy Tia Lupita Foods?
Tia Lupita Foods products are widely available in major retail stores across the United States. You can find their cactus-based tortillas, chips, and salsas at popular grocery chains like Whole Foods, Walmart, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, and Publix.
The brand has also expanded internationally, with products available in Costco Wholesale Canada and Save-On-Foods, making it easier than ever to enjoy authentic, healthy Mexican-inspired food.
For those who prefer online shopping, Tia Lupita Foods’ full product range is available on their official website. Additionally, you can purchase their products through major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, ensuring convenient access no matter where you live.
Whether in-store or online, Tia Lupita Foods makes it simple to bring healthy and sustainable Mexican flavors to your kitchen.
Key Takeaways From Tia Lupita Shark Tank Success
- Passion for Health-Conscious Food: Hector’s deep passion for authentic, healthy Mexican food has been central to his success. His commitment to using sustainable, nutritious ingredients like cactus resonates with consumers who are looking for healthier alternatives in traditional cuisines.
- Shark Tank Exposure: Tia Lupita Foods’s appearance on Shark Tank not only secured the necessary funding but also propelled the brand into the spotlight. The exposure from the show brought in thousands of new visitors and opened doors to major retailers.
- Effective Negotiation: Hector’s ability to negotiate a favorable deal with Kevin O’Leary was pivotal to the company’s growth. The non-dilutable 5% equity and line of credit allowed Hector to retain control while securing the funding he needed.
- Focus on Retail Expansion: With products now available in thousands of stores, including major retailers like Walmart, Whole Foods, and Target, Tia Lupita Foods has become a household name for those seeking healthy Mexican food options.
FAQs On Tia Lupita Foods Shark Tank Update
Who Owns Tia Lupita?
Tia Lupita Foods is owned by Hector Saldivar, who founded the company in honor of his mother, Lupita, and her traditional Mexican recipes. Hector holds a 65% stake in the company, having invested $700,000 of his own money to grow the brand.
Did Tia Lupita Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Yes, Tia Lupita secured a deal on Shark Tank. Hector Saldivar negotiated with Kevin O’Leary, who offered $500,000 as a line of credit at 12.5% interest in exchange for 5% non-dilutable equity. This deal provided the funding Hector needed to expand Tia Lupita Foods and cover slotting fees for retail growth.
Is Tia Lupita Successful?
Yes, Tia Lupita Foods is successful. The company has expanded its product line, secured shelf space in over 5,000 retail stores, and raised $2.6 million in seed funding. With its innovative cactus-based products and increasing market presence, the brand continues to thrive in the healthy food industry.
What Happened To Tia Lupita Foods After Shark Tank?
After appearing on Shark Tank, Tia Lupita Foods successfully secured a deal with Kevin O’Leary, which helped the brand expand its retail presence.
The company grew to over 5,000 retail stores across the U.S., including Whole Foods, Target, and Walmart, and even entered international markets like Canada.
Tia Lupita Foods also introduced new products and raised $2.6 million in seed funding in 2023, continuing its mission to make healthy Mexican-inspired food accessible.
Conclusion: Tia Lupita Foods After Shark Tank
The Tia Lupita Shark Tank Update is one of perseverance, passion, and strategic growth.
Hector Saldivar has transformed his vision of healthy Mexican food into a successful brand that is making waves in the food industry.
With the backing of Kevin O’Leary and the increased exposure from Shark Tank, Tia Lupita Foods is poised to continue its growth, expanding into more stores and introducing new products to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers.
As Hector continues to build on his brand’s success, we can expect even more exciting updates in the years to come.
If you haven’t already, be sure to check out Tia Lupita Foods and taste the future of healthy Mexican cuisine!
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