Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky Shark Tank Net Worth 2023
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky was estimated to be worth $125,000 at the time of their Shark Tank pitch but since then the company has maintained a steady business and most likely increased in net worth since that original valuation.
Over the years Uncle Zip’s has become known for its delicious snacks and has grown into one of the top brands in its space.
Their continued success means that their net worth is likely much higher than it was before they appeared on Shark Tank and they have established themselves as a valuable brand in the food industry.
What is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky? Who is the founder of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is a company that vends various flavors of beef jerky. The most sought-after flavor is chili and lime, which is prepared without any preservatives and using locally sourced beef.
The company was established by William Howell in the late 1990s. Subsequently, it was taken over by his son Kenneth Howell, who unfortunately passed away in 2014.
The current manager of the company is Jeffrey Harris, who was a former schoolmate of Kenneth. The recipe for the beef jerky was originally created by William Howell and has been passed down through the family.
Due to the absence of preservatives, the product has a shelf life of approximately two months. The company encountered several obstacles, such as the demise of its founder, Kenneth, as well as his nephew and wife. Nonetheless, the company has since regained its stability.
What Happened to Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky at Shark Tank pitch?
Ken Howell, who founded Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky, appeared on episode 204 of Shark Tank to seek marketing and distribution assistance from the Sharks. In exchange for a 20% stake in his company valued at $125,000, he offered $25,000. Prior to his appearance on Shark Tank, he had been selling his jerky at local sporting events and specialized markets.
During the pitch, Howell distributed samples of his jerky and emphasized its superior taste and texture compared to commercial jerky. While the Sharks praised the taste of the jerky, they were more interested in the financials of the business.
Howell reported that the company had peaked at $100,000 in annual sales but had recently dropped to $50,000 due to personal losses.
Robert Herjavec expressed skepticism about Howell’s plans to expand by opening new processing plants in each new market, given that the business had been operating for a decade without turning a profit. As a result, none of the Sharks chose to invest in Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky.
Following Howell’s appearance on Shark Tank, the company experienced a surge in orders that it struggled to fulfill. However, the company faced another setback when Howell passed away from stage 4 cancer in 2014. Despite this, the company was kept afloat by a close friend of Howell’s, Jeff Harris, who has a marketing background.
Harris focused on internet sales, partnerships with local businesses, and a retail store in Fayetteville to keep the company going.
As of February 2022, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is still in operation and generating revenue, with estimates of annual revenue ranging between $500,000 and $1 million.
Net Worth of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky
The estimated value of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky at the time of the Shark Tank pitch was $125,000. Since then, the company has continued to operate and its net worth may have increased from that original valuation.
Competitors of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky
The primary competitors of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky in the market space are; Beef Jerky Outlet, Philly Beef Jerky and Jerky.com.
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky FAQs
What is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is a firm that sells a variety of flavored beef jerky, the most popular of which are chili and lime. Their product is preservative and chemical-free, extending its shelf life and utilizing locally sourced beef.
Who is the founder?
Ken Howell, the founder of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky, is an entrepreneur from Fayetteville with a background in entrepreneurship.
How much was Ken seeking on Shark Tank?
Ken was seeking $25,000 for a 20% stake in his company, which valued at $125,000.
Did Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky have the deal?
No, Ken did not have the deal.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky still in business?
Yes, the business is still in business as of February 2022.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky profitable?
The business is currently profitable; however they have opted to focus on other ventures instead.
Where is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky based?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is based in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Ken Howell and his family are natives of North Carolina.
How can I buy Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
Customer can purchase Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky in their retail store.
How much does Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky cost?
The costs of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky vary based on the style and flavor that customer buy. They can buy it in a pack or by piece.
What is the taste of Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
The taste is mild and juicy with a good texture, smooth but not greasy.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky approved by FDA?
Yes, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is free from chemical, preservative and artificial flavor.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky gluten-free?
Yes, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is gluten-free.
What is the shipping rate for Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky?
The shipping rate for Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky depends on customer location.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky kosher-free?
Yes, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is kosher-free.
Is Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky sugar-free?
Yes, Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is sugar-free.
Does Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky accept PayPal?
Yes, customer can use their PayPal account to purchase Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky. To do that; go to their website and add the item to their cart.
Now select PayPal as the payment option and enter the quantity of the item that customer have selected in the form below.
What are Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky ingredients?
Uncle Zip’s Beef Jerky is made manually without adding any preservative or chemicals. It is made with 100% natural ingredients and meat product.
What is the net worth of Ken Howell?
The net worth of Ken Howell is unknown.
