In one of the most high-pressure pitches of Shark Tank India Season 4, the founders of Trajectory, a cushion brand from Delhi, faced intense scrutiny as they presented their business to the sharks. Seeking Rs 1 crore in exchange for 2 per cent equity, valuing their company at Rs 50 crore, the founders found themselves in a heated exchange with Anupam Mittal.
Despite their robust financials, including a projected revenue of Rs 15 crore and an impressive EBITDA margin of 21 percent, the presentation took a dramatic turn. The founders’ strategic distribution plan, featuring partnerships with Amazon and airport retail outlets, caught the interest of some sharks. Their efficient marketing spend of under 5 percent was also noteworthy. However, concerns about branding, trust, and differentiation cast doubts on Trajectory’s viability.
### Key Moments from the Pitch:
*Anupam Mittal Interrupts Raghav’s Pitch:*
Raghav, one of the founders, attempted to share his brand’s story but was cut off by Anupam Mittal, who sarcastically asked, “Will this story ever end?”
*Raghav’s Joke Backfires:*
In an effort to lighten the mood, Raghav’s joke fell flat. Anupam responded, “Your rehearsed jokes aren’t landing, my friend.”
*Peyush Bansal Offers Advice:*
Peyush Bansal advised Raghav to abandon the scripted approach, warning that it could harm their pitch.
*Anupam Loses Patience:*
When Namita Thapar inquired about the unique selling points of their cushions, Raghav’s explanation about the fabric and material led to Anupam’s frustration. He exclaimed, “What nonsense are you saying? Why do you always beat around the bush?”
Despite the challenges, Trajectory’s founders managed to impress some sharks with their financials and distribution strategy. The episode highlighted the high-stakes environment of Shark Tank India, where both founders and sharks navigate intense discussions to evaluate business potential.
