Talbott Teas

Talbott Teas is a Chicago based gourmet tea company owned by Jamba Juice. The company has a net profit of about $10 million. Owners Talbott and Nakisher appeared on Shark Tank, accepting a 35% equity deal with Kevin O'Leary.[1]

Company history

Talbott Teas was founded in 2003 by Shane Talbott and Dr. Steven Nakisher.[2] Shane Talbott spent more than 20 years in the salon and spa industry and has served as Oprah Winfrey’s personal hair colorist for 10 years. Dr. Steven Nakisher is a psychologist and entrepreneur.

Talbott Teas created special blends for the arts and entertainment industry including for Warner Brothers' 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz: The Ruby Slippers Blend,[2] the Joffrey Ballet's performances of The Nutcracker: Clara's Tea Slippers Blend, and a gift sets for the cast and crew of Slumdog Millionaire at the 2009 Academy Awards.[3]

Talbott won two awards for its Chocolate Almond Allure tea at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago's Annual World of Chocolate Event December 2011.[4] In 2012, Talbott Teas was chosen as one of Oprah's Favorite Things.[5]

Nakisher and Talbott appeared on Shark Tank in February 2011, receiving an investment of $250,000 for a 35 percent stake in their company from Kevin O'Leary.[1][6] Subsequently, Talbott Teas was purchased by Jamba Juice in 2012.[6]

References

  1. ^ a b Rogers, Kate (March 16, 2012). "Surviving the 'Shark Tank': Talbott Teas Grows its Brand From Hit TV Show". FOX News Network. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  2. ^ a b Forman, Ross (December 15, 2010). "Talbott Teas: How Oprah changed gay owners' lives". Windy City Times. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  3. ^ Bousquet, Kim (March 5, 2009). "T.J. graduate finds success selling high end tea, coloring Oprah's hair". The Daily Nonpareil. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  4. ^ Jordan, Candace (December 9, 2011). "World of Chocolate a sweet success". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  5. ^ Shropshire, Corilyn (February 21, 2012). "Jamba Juice buys Talbott Teas". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  6. ^ a b Munarriz, Rick Aristotle (February 22, 2012). "Jamba Crashes the Tea Party". Motley Fool. Retrieved April 28, 2012.