A Kurunjang master dog groomer recently faced a panel of “sharks” and came away best in show.
Melanie Newman impressed investors on the television show Shark Tank enough for them to pour $150,000 into her pooch-primping business, Melanie Newman Salon Essentials.
The entrepreneurial television series features five Australian business moguls out to find the next great idea to invest in.
Ms Newman walked away with an investment of 15 per cent from Boost Juice founder Janine Allis and 35 per cent investment from Dr Glen Richards, founder of Greencross, one of Australia’s largest pet care companys.
“I am very passionate about the pet industry,” Ms Newman told the panel.
“Pets are part of the family now and they deserve better products.
“My hands were constantly irritated from the chemicals in the grooming products, so we created our own professional-grade products.”
Ms Newman, who launched her product line in 2015, said the money and mentorship from the investors would help her expand the business.
“We are very excited with the outcome and opportunities Shark Tank has presented,” she said. “The whole experience has expanded our knowledge of our own business and how to deal business-to-business.
“We are very excited with the outcome and opportunities Shark Tank“Our long-term goal is to help build the bond between owners and pets, and help pet owners really understand the importance of home maintenance between professional grooms, as well as expand on our brand internationally.”
