Tom Filippini began his entrepreneurial journey in 2002 by founding Exclusive Resorts, a successful travel company. However, due to his struggle with alcohol addiction, he faced financial difficulties.
After overcoming his addiction in 2016, Tom wanted to create a game that brings people together and helps build connections. That’s how Pepper Pong was born—a fun game that combines elements of ping pong and pickleball. It can be set up and played on any surface. The game includes three different balls, each offering a unique bounce speed: green for low bounce, yellow for medium bounce, and red for high bounce.
Tom appeared on Shark Tank Season 16, seeking $150,000 for 10% equity at a $1.5 million valuation. He successfully secured a deal with Todd Graves for $150,000 in exchange for 19% equity. Todd expressed confidence in helping reduce customer acquisition costs.
| Company Name | Pepper Pong | |
| Founder | Tom Filippini | |
| Founded | 2023 | |
| Product | Portable game | |
| Asked For | $150k for 10% equity | |
| Final Deal | $150k for 19% equity | |
| Sharks | Todd Graves | |
| Episode (Shark Tank USA) | S16 E6 | |
| Air Date | Nov 22th, 2024 | |
| Business Status | In Business | |
| Headquarters | Denver, Colorado, USA | |
| Lifetime Worth (Sales) | $3.3 Million *estimated | |
| Valuation | $1.2 Million | |
| Website | Pepperpong.com | |
Who Is The Founder Of Pepper Pong?
Tom Filippini is the founder of Pepper Pong, a fun and engaging game. He officially launched the company in 2023. Before this, in 2022, he was running Exclusive Resorts, LLC, one of the most successful travel companies.
Regarding his education, Tom earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Bucknell University. In addition to his work in the travel and gaming industries, he is also the founder of Aviation Innovation Holdings, a company in the airline and aviation sector.
How Was The Shark Tank Pitch Of Pepper Pong?
After pitching his Pepper Pong product to the Sharks, Tom Filippini demonstrated how the game can be played on any surface without requiring a dedicated table. It is designed for two or more players, making it versatile and accessible.
The landed cost for a full set is $20, while it is sold D2C for $70. Some Sharks felt this price was too low, but Tom assured them he could increase it to $89. So far, he had sold $260,000 worth of products, all through his website via direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales, as he wanted to control the customer experience.
Guest Shark Todd Graves asked about the total investment in the business. Tom revealed that he had personally invested $500,000 so far. He also mentioned that he had 10,000 units in stock and that his customer acquisition cost was around $21-$22.
In 2023, when he started the business, his net sales were $160,000, and he projected $800,000 in sales for 2024. Additionally, he holds a patent for a foldable fence.
Shark Daymond John asked how the investment would be used. Tom explained that he needed funds to create a second mold and double production output.
However, Lori Greiner advised him to take things slow and not rush into creating another mold. She believed it wasn’t the right investment for her, so she backed out. Kevin O’Leary and Mark Cuban also decided not to invest.
With only Daymond and Todd left, Daymond offered $150,000 for 30% equity, with the condition that he would help expand retail sales. Todd Graves countered with $150,000 for 25% equity. After some negotiation, Tom struck a deal with Todd for $150,000 in exchange for 19% equity.
Breakdown Sharks Offer
Note: Here’s a quick summary of the offers and counteroffers between the Sharks and Todd:
| Sharks | Offers |
| Kevin O’Leary | No Offer |
| Daymond John | $150k for 30% equity |
| Mark Cuban | No Offer |
| Lori Greiner | No Offer |
| Todd Graves | $150k for 25% equity |
| Founder’s (Countered) | $150k for 19% equity |
| Final Deals | $150k for 19% equity (Todd) |
Pepper Pong Shark Tank Update
After finalizing the deal with Todd Graves, Tom immediately increased the product price from $70 to $89.99. To boost sales and promotion, Raising Cane’s began distributing Pepper Pong pamphlets in its stores. The product is now being promoted in 800 Raising Cane’s restaurants nationwide.
Instead of launching new products, Tom has decided to focus entirely on Pepper Pong.
Following the episode’s airing, the website received over 75,000 visitors between November and December. If even 10% of them purchased the product at an average price of $70, the sales during that period would have been around $490,000+ in just a few months.
In 2024, the company generated an estimated annual sales of over $900,000 with an 80% profit margin.
What Is Pepper Pong Net Worth?
Pepper Pong gained significant popularity after appearing on Shark Tank, with many people enjoying the game. The company secured an investment at a $790,000 valuation on the show. Currently, Pepper Pong’s estimated net worth is around $950,000.
