"Decide right now with me" — When Shark Tank's Lori Greiner took a chance on Bantam Bagels

In season 6, episode 13 of Shark Tank, when Bantam Bagels' founders, Nick and Elyse Oleksak, entered the tank, they had a specific goal in mind: using their creative bite-sized packed bagels to revolutionize the entire bagel space. As the entrepreneurs introduced their products, the experts were immediately interested in their unique offerings, but Lori Greiner was the first to recognize their full potential.

The Sharks discussed the scalability and market appeal of the couple's business as they presented it. Some were hesitant, but Lori didn't hesitate to take the risk. She was aware that, with the correct distribution, the product might become a great hit and have a widespread appeal. After making her counteroffer of $275,000 against 30%, the founders asked her to bring the share down to 25%. Creating a sense of urgency, she interrupted the other sharks and urged the founders,

"I would, if you decide right now with me."

The owners decided to lock the deal with Lori Greiner as soon as she agreed to their terms. However, the business hit new heights after this partnership. It came crashing down during the pandemic.

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When Bantam Bagels made it to Shark Tank's Season 6 Episode 13

Nick and Elyse Oleksak debuted in the tank with an ask for $275,000 for 11% of company shares for their bite-sized packed bagels, known as Bantam Bagels, in Shark Tank Season 6, Episode 13. In search of funding to expand their firm, they wowed the sharks with their enthusiasm and innovation, which resulted in a high-stakes deal that altered the course of their business.

Impressed by their twist on the infamous breakfast item, Kevin offered a deal to the owners, asking for 51% of the company for $275,000. Countering his offer, Barbara decided to offer the same money for 50%. However, it was Lori Greiner who came up with a deal that settled a little with the founder.

She offered, "I have an offer. Here's my offer. $275,000 for 30%."

As soon as the duo saw the opportunity, they countered her offer with 25% stakes, to which Greiner agreed only if she decided to fix the deal right away.

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What happened with Bantam Bagels after their appearance on Shark Tank?

Bantam Bagels saw rapid expansion and financial success after their Shark Tank agreement with Lori Greiner. Their packed bagels became well-liked and spread across the country. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they had unanticipated difficulties, just like many other firms. Sales decline and market changes ultimately caused the brand to fail.

Founders disclosed in a Season 10 update that they had sold Bantam Bagels to T. Marzetti Co. for $34 million while still running the business. However, after Bantam Bagels lost its distribution with Starbucks due to the pandemic in 2021, Lancaster Colony, T. Marzetti's parent business, decided to terminate the agreement. The brand's career took a turn when it was unable to bounce back from these setbacks and had to be closed.

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