Remember those really hot summer days? Living in Little Rock, Arkansas, Tom Prestella, an Air Force pilot, sure did. With the mercury hitting high, cooling off was a must. He and his sister Diana Baima got creative. They came up with Pick Up Pools. It’s an amazing invention that uses a strong 20 mil polyvinyl chloride (PVC) liner. It’s easy to set up and won’t damage your truck bed.
They showed up on Season 10, Episode 17 of ABC’s Shark Tank with their cool swimming pool accessory. It’s made from top-quality materials in Virginia and put together in California. Pick Up Pools caught the eye of many lifestyle websites and online shops. Despite its clever design and initial success, the brand eventually didn’t make it in the long haul. Yet, in the baking heat or even in war zones, this portable pool provided a refreshing alternative for many.
Key Takeaways
- Pick Up Pools was created by Air Force pilot Tom Prestella to combat extreme summer heat.
- The product features a durable 20 mil polyvinyl chloride (PVC) liner for easy setup.
- Appeared on Shark Tank Season 10, Episode 17, showcasing innovative pool cleaning solutions.
- Despite its ingenuity, the business ceased operations after gaining temporary attention.
- Provided a unique alternative to traditional residential pool equipment and was particularly popular among U.S. soldiers overseas.
Origins of Pick Up Pools
It all started one hot summer in Arkansas. Tom Prestella wanted to cool his daughter down. He tried to make a pool out of a tarp in his truck bed. It didn’t work well, but it gave him a great idea. That’s how he came up with Pick Up Pools, a new kind of swimming pool accessory.
The Inspiration Behind the Product
Tom wanted to turn his truck bed into a pool. He saw that regular ways weren’t good. So, he invented the Pick Up Pool. It was a hit, getting thumbs up on GadgetFlow and Wide Open Eats. People who love the outdoors thought it was awesome.
Challenges with Initial Prototypes
At first, making the perfect pool was tough. Tom went through many versions to get it right. He wanted it to be strong and work well. His hard work led to a cool pool vacuum. This made the Pick Up Pool even better.
The Birth of a New Business
American soldiers liked this portable pool too. It showed the pool was really useful. Tom’s small business started growing fast. His pool equipment solved problems in a clever way. It showed how small businesses can do big things with smart ideas.
Product Features and Benefits
The Pick Up Pool is a unique swimming pool accessory that stands out. It is easy to set up, versatile, and made of durable, American materials. These qualities make it a top choice for pool lovers.
Durable and American-Made Materials
The Pick Up Pool is built to last. It’s made of high-quality PVC from Virginia. The pool is put together in California. Its sturdy design and welded seams prevent tearing.
Easy Setup and Usage
The Pick Up Pool’s easy pool setup is a big plus. It turns a pickup truck into a pool quickly without needing bungee cords or adjustments. Its easy setup is why many users prefer it for a quick swim.
Versatile Uses Beyond Swimming
But the Pick Up Pool is more than just a pool. It can be a portable pool vacuum. It’s also great as a swimming pool accessory.
When you’re not swimming, it doubles as a giant cooler for events. Its versatile pool uses make it valuable for various situations, adding to its appeal.
“The Pick Up Pool is a game-changer. From easy pool setup to serving as a party cooler—it’s incredibly versatile.” — Consumer Review
Pick Up Pools on Shark Tank
Tom Prestella took his invention, Pick Up Pools, to Shark Tank in Season 10, filled with hope. This episode on ABC featured Tom’s journey from being an Air Force pilot in Arkansas to becoming an eager entrepreneur. He explained his invention was a portable swimming pool that fit in a pickup truck bed. It was made from durable American materials. This idea caught the Sharks’ attention because of its uniqueness and fun aspect.
The Pitch by Tom Prestella
Tom showcased how easy it was to set up the Pick Up Pool. He emphasized its convenient installation and how it’s perfect for truck beds. Ideal for hot summers or outdoor gatherings, he said. He also explained its strong design, made from high-quality PVC. It stood out from basic pool cleaners and typical kids’ inflatable pools. However, the balance between being a novel idea and useful became a key talking point.
Sharks’ Reactions and Feedback
The Sharks were both curious and skeptical. They liked its uniqueness but worried about how long it would sell. They debated whether the Pick Up Pool was just a fun truck accessory or could lead to bigger market opportunities. They were also concerned about safety risks and how much it costs to make. These issues made them hesitate about investing.
Market Potential and Business Challenges
The Sharks’ doubts reflected bigger market challenges. Making the product sustainable and growing beyond its initial appeal was hard. After Shark Tank, the product didn’t catch on widely, leading to its end. This story shows the risks in entrepreneurship. Even with a unique idea like Pick Up Pools, proving it can succeed in the market is crucial to win over investors.