Cropsticks Bamboo Chopsticks Update | Shark Tank Season 8
Mylen Yamamoto noticed a real issue with chopsticks—they’re always rolling off tables, and millions of trees are cut down every year just to make them. So she came up with CropSticks, made from eco-friendly bamboo and designed with a built-in rest that keeps them steady and clean. Can this innovative twist on a classic utensil secure the sharks’ support? Let’s dive into our CropSticks update and pitch recap to find out.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to CropSticks after
Mylen entered
In terms of a CropSticks update, the company secured a patent for its unique bamboo chopstick design. Additionally, CropSticks gained traction in over 500 retail locations. This growth has driven revenue to approximately $1.2 million, with an estimated net worth of $1.5 million.Â
| Shark | Result |
| Lori Greiner | No offer |
| Kevin O’Leary | No offer |
| Mark Cuban | No offer |
| Daymond John | No offer |
| Robert Herjavec | No offer |
Shark Tank CropSticks Pitch
- Entrepreneur: Mylen Fe Yamamoto
- Business: Unique chopsticks made of sustainable bamboo
- Ask: $75,000 for 12.5% equity
- Result: No deal
- Sharks: None
Mylen entered
She explained that the investment would help fund the production and expansion of her sustainable bamboo chopsticks, which have a unique built-in holder.
Her goal is to reach both restaurants and eco-conscious consumers.
CropSticks makes eco-friendly bamboo chopsticks with a built-in rest, which keeps them stable and clean.
Unlike traditional wooden chopsticks, which contribute to deforestation, CropSticks focuses on sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact.
Meanwhile, restaurants also partner with CropSticks, making it easy to access these eco-friendly alternatives.
The company mainly targets environmentally conscious consumers and restaurants, especially those focused on Asian cuisine.
This approach provides a cleaner dining experience by keeping chopsticks off the table.
Next, Mylen hands each shark a piece of sushi and a pair of chopsticks.
She shares the success of her Kickstarter campaign, which raised $21,816, and mentions she has already secured $190,000 in purchase orders.
Furthermore, with 65% profit margins, she expects to make $125,000. Notably, the purchase orders come from Hyatt and an Asian food distributor.
Each unit costs 2.2 cents to produce, which she wholesales at 6 cents and retails at 10 cents.
However, Kevin O’Leary argues that restaurateurs won’t pay a premium for a basic item like chopsticks, so he’s out.
Mark Cuban quickly follows suit, citing the same issue.
Daymond John sees this as a B2B play and feels it’s too early for him to invest, so he’s out as well.
Meanwhile, Robert Herjavec agrees with Kevin’s viewpoint and decides to go out too.
Although Lori Grenier likes Mylen, she ultimately feels the business isn’t a good fit for her and exits as well.
As Mylen did not land a deal, let’s get a CropSticks update to see whether she was able to steer her company to new heights.
Shark Tank CropSticks Update
Our CropSticks update found that the company secured a patent in April 2018 for its innovative bamboo chopstick design.
Additionally, CropSticks formed partnerships with major clients, including Disney properties, The Four Seasons, and Roy’s restaurants.
To meet the rising demand for sustainable dining solutions, the company also launched bamboo fiber straws and reusable chopsticks, diversifying its product line.
Moreover, in 2019, CropSticks achieved Certified B Corporation status, marking its commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
This certification, along with the company’s eco-friendly focus, helped CropSticks gain traction in retail.Â
Its products are now available in over 500 locations, including Walgreens and Cost Plus World Market.
At the time of writing, our CropSticks update research found that the company generates approximately $1.2 million in annual revenue and has grown to an estimated net worth of $1.5 million.
If we get another CropSticks update, we will let you know.
You can find more company updates from Season 8, Episode 20 here:
Before you go, be sure to check out our list of all the Shark Tank Season 8 products.
Kimberly is a writer for Shark Tank Recap. She has written episode summaries and updates across multiple seasons of Shark Tank, with a focus on complete and accurate information since 2021. She believes that getting the business aspects of each deal correct is extremely important for viewers and fans. Her favorite Shark Tank products are The Wobbles and Rocketbook!