📊 Company Information
💰 Entrepreneur's Ask
AirBedz Net Worth
AirBedz was valued at approximately $1.67 million when pitched in 2012 (based on the $250k asking for 15%). Due to patent disputes and limited growth post-show, estimated net worth is approximately $500,000-$800,000. The business survived through Pittman Outdoors but never achieved significant expansion, remaining a niche player in the truck bed accessory market.
Jim Pittman pitched AirBedz on Shark Tank Season 3 in 2012, seeking $250,000 for 15% equity. AirBedz produces custom-designed air mattresses specifically engineered to fit pickup truck beds, featuring cutouts that allow the mattress to fit around wheel wells and utilize the entire truck bed.
Each AirBedz mattress features heavy-duty cloth construction for puncture resistance, dimensions of 76″ x 63.5″ x 12″ when inflated, and includes a convenient built-in pump powered by a rechargeable twelve-volt battery. Production costs range from $50-60 per unit with retail pricing at $199-209, or $125-145 for camping stores. The company offered two sizes for both six-foot and eight-foot truck beds.
By pitch time, AirBedz had generated $210,000 in revenue the previous year with $220,000 projected for the current year. Pittman had accumulated $400,000 worth of inventory in storage. Despite decent sales figures, all five sharks expressed skepticism about market size and growth potential.
Mark Cuban told Pittman to “get off your ass and sell,” criticizing his lack of sales strategy and effort. Kevin O’Leary deemed it too niche. Barbara Corcoran offered $250,000 but demanded 50% equity—Pittman countered at 25%, but she declined. All five sharks passed without a deal.
Post-show complications emerged. Pittman claimed four patents for AirBedz, but the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office records show the “dual layer mattress truck bed” patent actually belongs to Terrence Michael Hanrahan of California. This led to legal disputes that hindered business growth.
Despite the setbacks, AirBedz continues operating. Pittman evolved into Pittman Outdoors, expanding beyond truck mattresses into broader outdoor equipment. The original AirBedz product line remains available through retailers like Amazon and specialty outdoor stores, though with significantly limited market presence compared to competitors.
