Quick Shark Tank Update on Flashback ONE35 Camera
- Sales Milestones: Over 100,000 units sold since launching in 2023, grossing AUD 3 million to date.
- Kickstarter Triumph: Raised AUD 800,000 in crowdfunding within months of launch.
- Product Highlights: Combines retro charm with digital convenience; 27-photo limit, 24-hour “development” period, and app integration.
- Future Projections: Expected to generate AUD 15 million in revenue within the next year.
Imagine capturing moments with the charm of film photography but the convenience of digital technology. That’s the vision of Kelric Mullen and Mackenzie Salisbury, the brains behind the Flashback ONE35 Camera.
These Brisbane-based university students blended nostalgia with innovation to create a product that redefines the photography experience for Gen Z and millennials.
“Flashback offers all the best parts of the film experience but in a more convenient, affordable, and environmentally sustainable way,” they shared during their pitch.
Their impressive Shark Tank appearance, which secured a deal with investor Maxine Horne, showcased their revolutionary concept. Curious to know more? Let’s dive into their journey!
Flashback ONE35 Camera Journey Before Shark Tank
Kelric and Mackenzie’s story begins in their garage, disassembling cameras and prototyping designs. They were driven by a mission to help people disconnect from their phones and live in the moment.
The duo developed the Flashback ONE35 Camera to revive the joy of capturing memories intentionally. Kelric, a chemistry and mechatronics engineering student, and Mackenzie, a business and film student, brought unique skills to the project.
“Mack is the genius. He is the man that makes things into reality. My thing is ideas and creativity,” Kelric said.
In May 2023, they launched their product on Kickstarter. It achieved phenomenal success by raising AUD 800,000 and surpassing their AUD 80,000 goal.
Since then, the company has sold over 100,000 units, generating a total revenue of AUD 3 million. The AUD 150 camera offers a unique mix of nostalgia and modern tech.
It mimics a disposable camera with a 27-photo limit, a retro film winder, and a 24-hour “development” time, but integrates seamlessly with a mobile app.
Their dedication to the project extended to their personal lives. Mack even slept under the stairs in Kelric’s share house to maximize working hours.
“We’ve both dived headfirst into this. The big difference now is we’ve got some experience on our side,” Mackenzie said.
Supported by the UQ Ventures Accelerator Program, they collaborated with engineers and manufacturers to prepare for mass production.
Shark Tank Pitch Recap
The duo entered Shark Tank dressed in branded boiler suits, presenting their product with charisma and confidence. They asked for AUD 500,000 for a 7% stake, leaving the Sharks intrigued but skeptical.
Kelric captured their attention with a photo of his reaction to receiving their first 80,000 orders in just 13 minutes.
The ONE35 Camera’s features stood out:
- “It’s like a single-use disposable camera but instead of shooting film, you get one day to take 27 digital photos that get sent to your phone the next day,” Kelric explained.
- Users select a digital film roll via the app, shoot their photos, and wait 24 hours for development. This simulates the anticipation of traditional film photography.
Shark Rob Herjavec questioned why consumers wouldn’t simply use smartphones. Mackenzie defended their product’s unique appeal. “This is slow photography, like slow food. It’s about savoring the experience,” he explained.
With sales figures like AUD 600,000 in monthly revenue, the Sharks began to take notice. Investor Maxine Horne, impressed by the business model and nostalgic appeal, offered AUD 500,000 for a 20% stake.
Kelric and Mackenzie countered and negotiated successfully to 10% equity. “What a perfect thing to have a retro shark invest in your retro product,” Horne said, sealing the deal.
Flashback Shark Tank Update
Flashback’s Shark Tank appearance catapulted them into the limelight. The investment allowed them to scale inventory, expand marketing, and optimize distribution
. “I am very excited to be working with Maxine. She just seems like the perfect person for us,” Kelric shared. He highlighted her extensive retail expertise as a major asset for their growth.
By leveraging their viral appeal and expanding during the holiday season, Flashback projects a revenue surge to AUD 15 million within the next year.
David Fogarty, another Shark, declared,
“This is the biggest gifting product I have seen. You are going to be millionaires from this.”
Future Plans
Flashback’s future includes expanding its product range and enhancing its app’s functionality. They also plan to explore global retail partnerships while remaining committed to sustainability.
“We want to change the way the world captures memories,” Mackenzie said. The founders hinted at several exciting developments on the horizon.
Closing Thoughts
From a garage in Brisbane to the Shark Tank stage, Kelric Mullen and Mackenzie Salisbury have proven that innovation and grit can make dreams a reality. With a unique product and solid mentorship, Flashback is poised to revolutionize photography.
“This is just the beginning,” Kelric concluded. Will the ONE35 Camera lead a photography renaissance? Only time will tell, but the future certainly looks bright for Flashback.
We’re closely following the company to bring you valuable insights. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Flashback!
