How a £1.20 pacifier became a million-pound Shark Tank success story
A clever pacifier design called the Pop has caught the attention of parents and major retailers alike. Created by Nicki, the product keeps dummies clean by snapping into a protective case when dropped. It even landed her a deal on the popular TV show Shark Tank. Nicki launched the Pop in 2018 after designing a medical-grade pacifier that converts into its own casing. The idea was to reduce bacteria exposure without constant sterilisation. Each unit costs just £1.20 to produce but retails for £9.99.
In early 2018, the company faced a brief setback when a bank issue delayed operations. The problem was resolved within two weeks, allowing sales to continue. By 2022, the Pop was on track to generate around £1 million in annual revenue. The product's success led Nicki to *Shark Tank*, where she asked for £250,000 in exchange for a 5% stake. Investors Daymond John and Kevin O'Leary both made offers—Daymond proposed £250,000 for 10%, while Kevin matched the amount but wanted 15%. Nicki ultimately accepted Kevin's deal for a 10% share. Today, the Pop is patented and sold at well-known stores like Nordstrom, Buy Buy Baby, and Target. It's also available on Amazon, Walmart, and Diapers.com, making it easy for parents to buy online or in person.
The Pop has grown from a Shark Tank pitch into a widely sold product. Its simple yet effective design addresses a common parenting frustration. With retail partnerships and steady revenue growth, the company continues to expand its reach.
