Five lions exhibit a fervor for snorkeling.
Rarely do all lions compete for a single founding team. In the sixth episode of the current season of "Die Höhle der Löwen," it's time once again. The attention is drawn to a full-face snorkeling mask with a smart valve system. Viewers who have watched the show each Monday night since its inception know this: at least one pitch each episode stands out. This time, it's two founding teams that will leave the panel of investors and living room viewers astonished. The excitement begins with a company valuation so high it causes investors to choke. Sabrina Hellstern and Claudia Sodha, from Wannweil, are behind ExoRobot, a highly developed robotic system that will soon relieve surgeons of physical strain. "We sold a family car outright for our vision," they say, "and spent a total of three million euros on its development." The system "prevents fatigue and pain" and "increases surgical precision," according to Prof. Dr. Bernhard Krämer, who was also present.
Several lions would love to collaborate and assist this pioneering invention with their money and expertise. However, various issues prevent them from doing so. Besides the high company valuation, they're concerned about numerous conflicting interests. The high valuation isn't the only thing that troubles the investors; there are also concerns about pre-financing round concentrations and a communication environment with six present founders and three other investors. Ultimately, a sense of uncertainty permeated the room, causing them all to express their enthusiasm for the innovation but not enough to make an offer.
A turnover of 5.3 million euros demands attention
The two water sports enthusiasts Alina and Christian Hanauer also approach the lions' den ("Khroom") with a company valuation of 350,000 euros for eight percent of the business in their bags. With their full-face snorkel mask, equipped with an intelligent valve system, the couple from Fürth intend to revolutionize the snorkeling industry. What initially appears unremarkable becomes stunning when the lions learn two significant facts: the self-developed valve system prevents moist breathing air from being re-inhaled, which can lead to headaches and fainting underwater; and the duo's water sports company generated a remarkable revenue of 5.3 million euros the year before.
Instantly, the lions form two groups. While Tillman Schulz and Carsten Maschmeyer join forces on one side, Ralf Dümmel and Janna Ensthaler team up on the other. A bidding war breaks out, unlike anything previously seen in the lions' den. Alongside these investors raising their stakes, Dagmar Wöhrl also joins the battle: "I'm still here and I'll make you an offer too!"
"Follow your heart's desires!"
Matters are looking up for the founders. All five lions are throwing around promising deals. The only question remains - who is the best partner for the couple and their product? "Let your heart make the decision!" suggests Ralf Dümmel. Carsten follows suit, drawing a big heart on his silk shirt with a pen. Only a few minutes later, the founders return from their consultation and point at Tillman Schulz and Carsten Maschmeyer. Applause rises - at least from the deal lions.
Regrettably, Ralf Dümmel misses a chance this time. After the unsuccessful pitches of the climbing duo Gertraud Lantschner and Dieter Kofler ("BOULDERBALL") and the dedicated fashion designer Susana Gomez ("LÆMON"), King of the Shelves acquires a 30% stake in "Nature Pandan," partnering with colleague Nils Glagau. This deal is not a small consolation: healthy, tasty pandan extract superfood from India is the goal. So, cheer up, Ralf!
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In the world of television, RTLplus might air a special episode about the lions' den encounter with the innovative full-face snorkeling mask company. Following this, some start-ups might seek advice from the "Shark Tank"-like show, hoping to secure investments to grow their businesses.
Source: www.ntv.de
