Wink Frozen Desserts Update | Shark Tank Season 7

ByAndrew Smith

When Gabe Wolff was 17, he found out he had Celiac disease and dairy allergies, which meant no more ice cream. He wanted something just as creamy and sweet, so he started making his own using pea protein and natural ingredients. That became Wink Frozen Desserts, a dairy-free, low-calorie ice cream alternative. Now, he and Ani Blinova need a shark’s help to grow production and get into more stores. Let’s take a look at which shark showed interest in making a deal in our Wink Frozen Desserts update and pitch recap.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to Wink Frozen Desserts after Shark Tank.

Ani and Gabe entered Shark Tank Season 7, seeking $300,000 for 15% equity in their ice cream substitute brand. After their pitch, they left without a deal.

In terms of a Wink Frozen Desserts update, the company struggled to scale production while keeping product quality high. Furthermore, Wink Frozen Desserts later shut down in January 2020, and its website is no longer active.

SharkResult
Robert HerjavecNo offer 
Kevin O’LearyNo offer
Barbara CorcoranNo offer
Lori GreinerNo offer
Mark CubanNo offer

Shark Tank Wink Frozen Desserts Pitch

Shark Tank Wink Frozen Desserts Update
  • Entrepreneurs: Ani Blinova and Gabe Wolff
  • Business: 100-calorie ice cream substitute
  • Ask: $300,000 for 15% equity
  • Result: No deal
  • Shark: None

Gabe and Ani stepped into Shark Tank, determined to change how people with dietary restrictions enjoy dessert.

They sought an investment to expand their distribution and make Wink available to more health-conscious consumers nationwide.

Wink Frozen Desserts is a dairy-free, allergen-free ice cream alternative with only 100 calories per pint.

Gabe explained that while ice cream is a popular treat, it is often unhealthy and not an option for those with dietary restrictions.

After his diagnosis of Celiac disease and dairy intolerance, he wanted to create an alternative that satisfied his cravings without the health risks.

The sharks were curious to try the samples, but their reactions were not encouraging. Robert Herjavec, who considers himself an ice cream lover, tasted it first and was unimpressed.

Over their three years of operation, the entrepreneurs generated $500,000 in sales, but the slow growth discouraged the sharks.

Gabe explained that while their gross profit the previous year was $87,000, they expected to reach $650,000 this year.

Mark Cuban asked how the product was distributed, and Ani explained that it was available in 30 Whole Foods stores and other regional markets.

Barbara Corcoran, surprised by the increase, asked what was driving the sudden growth. Ani explained that they had secured agreements with 180 stores, which significantly boosted sales.

Furthermore, Gabe mentioned that their previous financial struggles were due to co-packer issues, including a $60,000 loss from a freezer malfunction.

Barbara wasn’t convinced since she preferred to invest in profitable businesses, she decided to step out.

Mark is lactose intolerant, he found the taste unappealing and opted out.

Robert felt they lacked the right industry connections to help them succeed, so he chose not to invest.

Lori Greiner also liked the idea of a 100-calorie ice cream pint, but she couldn’t get past the taste and backed out as well.

Kevin O’Leary said that the taste wasn’t strong enough to attract a wider customer base. Ultimately, he decided to pass on the deal.

In the end, the duo had to leave without a deal. Let’s see what they made out of their company in our Wink Frozen Desserts update.

Shark Tank Wink Frozen Desserts Update

Our Wink Frozen Desserts update found that the company faced challenges in scaling production and maintaining product quality. The company ceased operations in January 2020.

At the time of writing, the founders have since moved on to other ventures; Ani established Ani Wolff Weddings & Wellness, an event and luxury wedding planning business.

Gabe, on the other hand, transitioned to roles in marketing and brand management.

This is our final Wink Frozen Desserts update..

Be sure to check out our other company updates from Season 7 Episode 7.

Before you go, be sure to check out our list of all the Shark Tank Season 7 products. 

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Andrew is a lifelong fan of Shark Tank and an entrepreneur at heart. He started Shark Tank Recap because he wanted a single place to track what happens to the companies, founders, and deals after they air on TV. With a sharp eye for business insights and a passion for all things Shark Tank, Andrew makes sure every recap is accurate, engaging, and fun.