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AirBedz, the product that appeared in Season 3 of Shark Tank, is an inflatable air mattress specially designed to fit into the bed of pickup trucks.
Pittman Outdoors’ unique product provides a comfortable sleeping solution to those who enjoy camping and outdoor adventures while accommodating truck drivers who need a convenient place to sleep.
AirBedz is distinguished by its clever design that uses every inch of truck bed space. AirBedz’s model fits around and over the wheel wells of a pickup truck, ensuring no wasted space, unlike regular air mattresses. This design choice allows for a larger sleeping area and accommodates more users comfortably.
The AirBedz mattresses are also designed with durability in mind. They are constructed with puncture-resistant heavy-duty cloth material, ensuring the product can withstand the rugged conditions often encountered in outdoor settings.
The mattresses also have a built-in, rechargeable pump that simplifies the inflation and deflation process, making it more convenient for users. There is also an integrated air coil for better comfort, a carrying bag to make storage and transport easier, and various sizes to fit various truck models.
AirBedz models even have optional inflatable side inserts to convert the truck bed air mattress into a regular air mattress.
AirBedz is a good choice for several reasons. The clever, practical design maximizes space and provides a comfortable sleeping area, even in a rugged outdoor environment.
Its durability and user-friendly features, such as the built-in pump, air coils for comfort, and adaptability, make it an attractive choice for camping enthusiasts and truck owners.
It’s not just a product but a solution that addresses the needs of those who live an adventurous lifestyle. AirBedz takes camping to a new level with its comfortable and convenient outdoor sleeping system.
| Company Name | AirBedz |
| Entrepreneur | Jim Pittman |
| Product / Business | Air Bed Mattresses for Trucks |
| Investment Asking For | $250,000 for 15% equity in AirBedz |
| Final Deal | No Deal |
| Shark | No Shark |
| AirBedz Episode | Season 3, Episode 13 |
| AirBedz Business Status | In Business |
| AirBedz Website | AirBedz Website |
| AirBedz Net Worth | $2.5 Million |
What Is AirBedz?
AirBedz is a unique and innovative product that revolutionizes how people can sleep and relax on outdoor adventures or simply look for a comfortable night’s sleep in their truck bed.
AirBedz is a truck bed air mattress that fits perfectly in the flatbed of various-sized trucks, offering a restful and cozy sleep experience. AirBedz has a built-in air pump that allows easy inflation and deflation with just the push of a button – no cords or external pumps are needed.
AirBedz is made from heavy-duty cloth material and provides a comfortable sleeping surface. It is available in different colors and sizes, catering to the needs and preferences of customers.
AirBedz provides a comfortable and convenient sleeping solution to anyone participating in outdoor activities, whether camping, road-tripping, or any other outdoor activity.
Who Is The Founder Of AirBedz?
AirBedz was founded by James Pittman, the CEO of the parent company, Pittman Outdoors. Pittman had been associated with the outdoor industry for many years before coming up with the idea for AirBedz.
As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, he identified a gap in the market for a specialized air mattress that could fit into the back of a pickup truck. He aimed to combine comfort and utility in a way that could revolutionize camping for pickup truck owners.
The idea for AirBedz was conceived when Pittman was on a camping trip and found the usual arrangements for sleeping in the bed of his pickup truck to be uncomfortable and insufficient.
Recognizing the need for a product that would fit the bed of a truck perfectly while offering comfort and convenience, he developed AirBedz.
The unique design of this air mattress, integrating cutouts to accommodate the truck’s wheel wells, was a direct result of Pittman’s personal experience and ingenuity.
Before appearing on Shark Tank, Pittman Outdoors and the AirBedz product had already gained traction. The mattresses were being sold online and through various outdoor equipment retailers.
They had garnered a positive response from users who appreciated the product’s quality, comfort, and innovative design, which made camping in pickup trucks more enjoyable and convenient.
However, Pittman sought an investment to take his company to the next level despite this success. The Shark Tank platform offered the opportunity to showcase his product to a national audience, secure potential investment, and further establish the AirBedz brand.
The company attracted significant attention after its appearance on the show, highlighting the innovative solution Pittman’s AirBedz presented to outdoor enthusiasts.
How Was The Shark Tank Pitch Of AirBedz?
Jim Pittman, the founder of AirBedz, appeared on Season 3 of Shark Tank, seeking a $250,000 investment in exchange for a 15% stake in his company.
AirBedz, an inflatable air mattress designed to fit in the bed of a truck, was presented as a unique product available in two sizes to cater to eight- and six-foot truck beds.
The air mattresses are made of durable fabric and feature a built-in 12-volt air pump that can quickly inflate and deflate the product. The removable battery for the pump could be charged via a wall outlet or a car’s cigarette lighter, catering to on-the-go usage.
Despite the product’s unique features, the Sharks started the session skeptically. Robert Herjavec questioned the need for such a product, to which Jim replied that the booming outdoor sports market, valued at $56 million, had room for AirBedz.
The product was already on shelves in chain and sporting goods stores and was popular among hunters, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
When Barbara Corcoran raised concerns about the ease of inflation, especially for women using it alone, Jim demonstrated the battery-operated pump’s efficiency and asserted that the product could be set up in around 2.5 to 3.5 minutes, depending on the size.
Pittman revealed that he had already achieved $210,000 in sales the previous year and was on track to make $220,000 in the current year with around 1700 units sold. However, he also disclosed that warehouses had $400,000 unsold inventory.
The Sharks questioned his intentions with the investment money, and Pittman stated that he intended to hire more staff to boost sales.
This admission led to increased skepticism from the Sharks. Kevin O’Leary, Daymond John, and Mark Cuban doubted the market need for the product, Pittman’s efforts to sell it, and the business’s current sales figures. All three Sharks decided to drop out of the deal.
With other Sharks out, Barbara Corcoran seemed intrigued and keen on investing in AirBedz. She expressed interest in the product’s marketability and the fact that it had four separate patents.
However, she was concerned about Pittman’s sales abilities and how hiring more salespeople would increase sales. Barbara O’Leary offered the company $250,000 for a 50% ownership stake, going against Kevin’s advice. She planned to take over sales and expand into international markets.
Pittman, however, declined Barbara’s offer as he didn’t want to give up such a large portion of his business. Even when Mark Cuban tried to reframe Barbara’s offer as a valuable opportunity, Pittman refused.
He countered with an offer of a 25% stake, but Barbara stuck to her 50% stake requirement, which led to Pittman walking away without a deal.
Post Shark Tank, Pittman Outdoors continues selling AirBedz in different models and other inflatable recreational products. The products are available in stores and through online retailers, demonstrating steady progress despite not securing a deal on Shark Tank.
Final Deal: No deal between AirBedz and Sharks.
What Happened To AirBedz After Shark Tank?
After Jim Pittman’s appearance on Shark Tank, his company, Pittman Outdoors, has continued to operate successfully, despite not securing a deal with any of the Sharks.
The company launched the AirBedz website in 2016 to cater directly to truck owners, making it easier for them to find the right AirBedz for their needs. Additionally, the company has expanded its distribution channels to include truck dealerships.
Pittman Outdoors products, including AirBedz, are now available at retailers like Costco, Sears, and Sierra Trading Post in 36 states. The prices of AirBedz have also become more affordable over time, making them more accessible to potential customers.
Since Shark Tank, the company’s product line has significantly expanded. The original AirBedz design has been supplemented with accessories, backseat mattresses, and a pet line called AirBedz Pets. All these products utilize Pittman’s proprietary pump technology, making them distinct in the inflatable goods market.
The company has remained resilient despite some legal challenges that Pittman faced, including a lawsuit with another firm claiming to have invented a similar air mattress. AirBedz is still in business and continues selling its products in physical stores and online through various outlets.
The company’s valuation has also grown since its appearance on Shark Tank. While it was valued at $1.6 million during the show, the net worth of AirBedz increased to an estimated $2.5 million by 2022.
Even without Shark Tank’s investment, Pittman Outdoors and its flagship product, AirBedz, have expanded their product line, diversified their distribution channels, and risen in valuation.
AirBedz Shark Tank Update
After appearing on Shark Tank, Airbedz, the truck bed air mattress company founded by James Pittman, experienced successes and challenges. Airbedz, now known as Pittman Outdoors, experienced success despite not securing a deal with the Sharks.
The company expanded its presence by entering physical stores and launching its website to reach a broader customer base. The decision to rebrand as Pittman Outdoors allowed them to offer a range of inflatable products, not just limited to truck bed air mattresses. This move helped them grow and diversify their offerings.
Despite not securing a deal on Shark Tank, Airbedz continued growing its market presence. The company got its products into various Sporting Goods Stores nationwide, further expanding its reach and visibility.
Airbedz focused on improving its marketing efforts and expanding its product line. By offering a variety of inflatable trucks and camping bed pads, they enhanced the comfort of outdoor enthusiasts during their trips.
Additionally, they took a step to make their products more accessible to customers by lowering their prices. Airbedz’s valuation reportedly increased to $2 million. As for the CEO, James Pittman, his estimated net worth was $5 million.
After the show, Airbedz owner Jim Pittman faced challenges related to the company’s patents. The United States Patent and Trademark Office revealed that one of the patents claimed by Airbedz belonged to another inventor, Terrence Michael Hanrahan, who had introduced his product, Truck-Bedz, in 2004. This raised concerns about potential patent infringement issues, and the situation remained uncertain.
Despite not securing a deal on Shark Tank, Airbedz (now Pittman Outdoors) grew its business, expanded its product line, and increased its valuation. They faced patent-related challenges but continued to operate and offer inflatable products for outdoor enthusiasts.
What Is the Net Worth Of AirBedz?
According to our research, the net worth of AirBedz is estimated to be $2.5 million. The valuation of AirBedz was $1.6 million when it appeared on Shark Tank.
