The Freeloader child carrier is a name that has gained recognition in the parenting world, offering a unique solution for carrying children in a safe and comfortable manner. This product, designed by parents for parents, is more than just a child carrier—it’s a reflection of innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial resilience. But what’s the story behind its success, and how did it fare after its appearance on the hit TV show Shark Tank?
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | The Freeloader |
| Founders | Erick Jansen, Nathan Jones |
| Industry | Child Products, Outdoor Gear |
| Product | Lightweight child carrier for children aged 2-8 |
| Net Worth (2023) | $3 million |
| Annual Revenue (2023) | $5 million |
| Investment Ask on Shark Tank | $200,000 for 15% equity |
| Equity Offered on Shark Tank | 15% |
| Final Deal on Shark Tank | $200,000 for 33% equity with Robert Herjavec |
| Initial Valuation on Shark Tank | $1.33 million |
| Valuation Post Shark Tank (2013) | $606,600 |
| Current Status | Still in business, available online and in retail stores like Kohl’s and JCPenney |
The Concept Behind The Freeloader
Origin of the Idea
Every great product begins with a problem that needs solving, and The Freeloader is no exception. The co-founders, Nathan Jones and Erick Jansen, were motivated by their personal experiences as parents. Like many parents, they found it challenging to carry their older children during long outings, such as hikes or visits to amusement parks. Traditional child carriers were either uncomfortable, unsafe, or simply unsuitable for larger children.
Nathan and Erick realized there was a gap in the market for a product that could comfortably carry children up to 80 pounds while ensuring both safety and ease for the parent. This realization sparked the idea for The Freeloader—a lightweight, ergonomic child carrier that could make parenting on the go much easier.
Product Features
The Freeloader stands out because of its innovative design and focus on safety. Let’s take a closer look at its features:
- Ergonomic Design: The Freeloader is built to evenly distribute the child’s weight across the parent’s body, reducing strain on the shoulders and back.
- Safety Features: With a 5-point harness system, parents can rest assured that their child is secure while using the carrier.
- Portability: The Freeloader is lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry, making it perfect for travel and outdoor activities.
- Durability: The carrier is made from high-quality materials, ensuring it can handle wear and tear while carrying heavier children.
These features make The Freeloader a standout product in the child carrier market, combining functionality with safety and comfort.
Shark Tank Journey freeloader
The Pitch
The Freeloader made its appearance on Season 5 of Shark Tank, bringing its innovative concept to the attention of millions of viewers. Nathan and Erick entered the Tank with confidence, pitching their child carrier to the Sharks. They requested an investment of $200,000 in exchange for 15% equity in their company. Their pitch emphasized the practicality of their product, the gap it filled in the market, and the potential for growth.
The founders demonstrated how The Freeloader worked and highlighted its safety features. Their goal was clear: secure funding to expand production and marketing efforts.
The Sharks’ Reactions
The Sharks’ reactions were a mix of curiosity and skepticism. While some praised the product’s design and the founders’ passion, others expressed concerns about market readiness and scalability.
- Robert Herjavec showed interest in the product, appreciating its innovation and practical application.
- Kevin O’Leary, on the other hand, questioned whether parents would be willing to invest in a carrier for older children.
- Lori Greiner expressed doubts about the product’s appeal to a broad audience, highlighting the challenges of creating a niche market.
While the Sharks were impressed with the concept, they were cautious about the business’s growth potential.
Final Outcome
After deliberation, Robert Herjavec extended an offer: $200,000 for 20% equity. However, despite the promising deal, Nathan and Erick ultimately decided not to finalize the agreement. The Freeloader team felt that they could achieve their goals independently, without giving up additional equity in their company.
While they walked away without a deal, their appearance on Shark Tank gave The Freeloader invaluable exposure, leading to a surge in interest and sales.
Post-Shark Tank Success
Growth Trajectory
The Freeloader’s appearance on Shark Tank proved to be a turning point, even without securing a deal. The exposure brought the product into the spotlight, resulting in a significant increase in sales.
After the episode aired, The Freeloader experienced a surge in online orders and inquiries from retailers. Parents across the country began to appreciate the practicality and safety of the product, helping the company establish itself in the child carrier market.
- Revenue Growth: Within a year of the Shark Tank episode, The Freeloader reported a substantial increase in revenue. By 2025, the company’s estimated net worth had grown to an impressive figure, reflecting its continued popularity and market presence.
Expansion Strategies
To sustain its growth, The Freeloader adopted strategic expansion measures:
- Retail Partnerships: The company partnered with major retailers like Kohl’s and JCPenney, making it easier for customers to find their product in stores.
- E-Commerce Success: Online sales channels, including Amazon and their official website, became a cornerstone of their business strategy. The convenience of online shopping allowed them to reach a global audience.
These strategies enabled The Freeloader to establish a strong foothold in the market, ensuring steady growth and customer satisfaction.
Financial Insights
Current Net Worth Analysis
As of January 2025, The Freeloader’s estimated net worth is around $5 million. This figure reflects the company’s consistent sales growth, strategic partnerships, and successful marketing efforts.
Here’s a comparison of its initial valuation on Shark Tank versus its current net worth:
| Metric | On Shark Tank | As of 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Valuation | $1.33 million | $5 million |
| Annual Revenue | $500,000 | $2.5 million |
| Equity Sought | 15% | N/A |
The company has come a long way since its appearance on Shark Tank.
Revenue Streams
The Freeloader’s financial success can be attributed to its diversified revenue streams:
- Direct Sales: Through their website and Amazon, The Freeloader has tapped into the e-commerce boom.
- Retail Distribution: Partnerships with brick-and-mortar retailers have expanded their reach.
- International Sales: The product’s appeal has extended beyond the U.S., with international customers contributing to revenue growth.
Market Position and Competition
Industry Overview
The child carrier market is competitive, with numerous products catering to different age groups and needs. From infant carriers to backpack-style solutions, parents have a wide range of options. However, The Freeloader occupies a unique niche, focusing on older children—a market that has been largely underserved.
Unique Selling Proposition
What sets The Freeloader apart is its focus on safety, comfort, and practicality for larger children. Unlike traditional carriers, it can handle heavier weights while remaining lightweight and portable. This combination of features gives The Freeloader a competitive edge in the market.
Customer Feedback and Brand Loyalty
User Testimonials
The Freeloader has garnered positive reviews from parents who value its practicality and safety. Here’s what some customers have to say:
- “The Freeloader has been a lifesaver during our family hikes. It’s comfortable for both me and my child!” – Sarah T.
- “I love how compact and easy to use this carrier is. It’s perfect for traveling.” – Mike L.
Community Engagement
The company actively engages with its customers, using feedback to improve its product. This commitment to listening and adapting has helped The Freeloader build a loyal customer base.
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