In Season 15, Episode 2 of “Shark Tank,” Venezuelan-born sisters Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Vieteis pitched their product, TOAST-IT Arepas, to the Sharks. The sisters described their line of better-for-you, authentic-tasting South American snacks and sought a $100,000 investment for 5% equity in their business. After sampling the arepas, the judges were impressed with the flavor, but Lori Greiner, Daymond John, and Marc Cuban opted out of investing. Kevin O’Leary loved the yuca-based arepa and made an offer of $100,000 for 20% equity, while guest Shark Daniel Lubetzky agreed to the same deal. The sisters ultimately accepted Lubetzky’s offer, bringing him on as a partner. TOAST-IT Arepas offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional South American snacks.
Key Takeaways:
TOAST-IT Arepas appeared on Shark Tank, impressing the judges with its authentic taste and health benefits.
The founders, Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Vieteis, accepted Daniel Lubetzky’s offer and formed a successful partnership.
TOAST-IT Arepas provide a convenient and healthier option for enjoying South American snacks.
The products are gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and preservative-free, appealing to those with dietary restrictions.
TOAST-IT Arepas can be found in Publix, Central Markets, Whole Foods, and can be purchased online through Amazon and the brand’s website.
The Journey of TOAST-IT Founders
TOAST-IT is a venture founded by two Venezuelan sisters, Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Vieteis. Their vision was to introduce the culinary tradition of arepas to the United States, where they realized there was a lack of convenient options to enjoy this beloved staple. Determined to fill this gap, they embarked on an entrepreneurial journey to create their own solution.
After extensive cooking and testing in their own kitchen, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina officially launched TOAST-IT in 2019. They set out to differentiate their product in the competitive food industry by focusing on strong branding and using high-quality ingredients.
One of the significant milestones in TOAST-IT’s journey was their appearance on the popular television show “Shark Tank.” This platform allowed the founders to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit and passion for their product to a wider audience. Their pitch caught the attention of the guest Shark, Daniel Lubetzky, who saw the potential in TOAST-IT’s success story.
Ultimately, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina’s dedication and perseverance paid off when they formed a strategic partnership with Daniel Lubetzky. This collaboration enabled TOAST-IT to further expand its reach and solidify its position in the market.
Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable journey of TOAST-IT’s founders and their experience on “Shark Tank.”
Introducing TOAST-IT Arepas
TOAST-IT brings you a delicious and convenient way to enjoy authentic South American flavors with their ready-to-toast arepas. These thick corn patties are made with pre-cooked cornmeal flour called Masarepa, ensuring a traditional taste and texture. But that’s not all – TOAST-IT Arepas are also gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and preservative-free, making them a healthier option for those with dietary restrictions.
Each serving of TOAST-IT Arepas provides 5 grams of protein, offering a satisfying and nourishing snack or meal. And the best part? They can be prepared in just five minutes using an air fryer, toaster oven, or regular oven.
To cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, TOAST-IT has expanded its product line to include arepas made with flaxseed and chia, as well as arepas made from cassava root. These variations not only offer additional nutritional benefits but also bring unique flavor profiles to your plate.
TOAST-IT Arepas Varieties
TOAST-IT Arepas offers three mouthwatering varieties:
Original Corn Arepas
Arepas with Flaxseed and Chia
Arepas made from Cassava Root
Each variety provides a distinct taste and texture experience, showcasing the culinary diversity of Latin American cuisine.
Nutritional Benefits of TOAST-IT Arepas
TOAST-IT Arepas are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional goodness. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional benefits:
Nutrient
Original Corn Arepas
Arepas with Flaxseed and Chia
Arepas made from Cassava Root
Protein
5g
6g
4g
Fiber
3g
4g
3g
Iron
10% DV
15% DV
8% DV
These are just a few of the nutritional benefits you can enjoy when you savor a TOAST-IT Arepa. It’s a tasty way to nourish your body and satisfy your cravings.
TOAST-IT Arepas are perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack. Whether you’re a fan of the classic corn arepa or want to try something new with flaxseed and chia or cassava root, TOAST-IT has something to tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to toast, indulge, and enjoy the flavors of South America with TOAST-IT Arepas.
The Founders of TOAST-IT
The driving force behind TOAST-IT’s success are the founders, Maria Fernanda Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas. These two Venezuelan sisters are deeply passionate about their culture and cuisine, and their entrepreneurial journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
Maria Fernanda, with her successful background in corporate finance, brings her expertise in business strategy and financial management to the table. On the other hand, Maria Corina’s master’s degree in data science adds a valuable analytical perspective to TOAST-IT’s operations.
Together, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina share a common vision of promoting their Venezuelan heritage and creating convenient, guilt-free Latin American foods. This shared ambition led them to establish TOAST-IT in 2019, aiming to introduce authentic and high-quality Latin American snacks to a wider audience.
Both founders draw from their personal experiences and cultural roots to infuse TOAST-IT with a unique touch. Maria Fernanda’s expertise in finance ensures the company’s financial stability and growth, while Maria Corina’s data-driven approach allows for strategic decision-making and continued innovation.
Driven by their dedication to their heritage and a genuine desire to provide healthier snack options, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina have successfully positioned TOAST-IT as a leading brand in the Latin American food market. Their leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have paved the way for TOAST-IT’s continued success.
Image: The founders of TOAST-IT, Maria Fernanda Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas
Where to Buy TOAST-IT Arepas
If you’re eager to try TOAST-IT Arepas and wondering where to find them, you’re in luck! TOAST-IT Arepas are available in various locations across the United States, making it easier for you to satisfy your cravings for these delicious South American snacks.
Here are some of the places where you can find TOAST-IT Arepas:
Publix Stores in Florida: If you’re located in Florida, head to your nearest Publix store to find TOAST-IT Arepas. Publix is known for its excellent selection of fresh and high-quality products, and you can now add TOAST-IT Arepas to your shopping list.
Central Markets in the Southeastern United States: TOAST-IT Arepas can also be found in Central Markets located in the southeastern United States. Look out for these flavorful snacks while you’re exploring the aisles.
Whole Foods: TOAST-IT Arepas have recently made their way onto the shelves of Whole Foods, a popular grocery store chain that focuses on natural and organic products. With Whole Foods now offering TOAST-IT Arepas, you have even more accessibility to these tasty treats.
If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can also purchase TOAST-IT Arepas through Amazon or the brand’s official website. Simply place your order and have the delicious arepas delivered right to your doorstep.
Customers who have tried TOAST-IT Arepas have left positive reviews, praising the exceptional taste and quality of these South American snacks. Now, it’s your turn to experience the deliciousness for yourself!
The Success of TOAST-IT
TOAST-IT has revolutionized the food industry through its remarkable success and unwavering commitment to convenience, healthfulness, and the celebration of Latin American culture. The brand’s impact has been truly phenomenal, with an ever-growing customer base and a strong presence in countless supermarkets across the United States and Canada. TOAST-IT’s exceptional growth and recognition can be attributed to the founders’ dedication in creating authentic, high-quality Latin American foods that have resonated with customers far and wide.
The founders of TOAST-IT have successfully captured the essence of Latin American cuisine, delivering delicious flavors that captivate taste buds while offering healthier alternatives. The combination of convenience and a commitment to quality has struck a chord with customers, resulting in hundreds of orders each week. TOAST-IT’s remarkable growth is a testament to its ability to meet the demands of a market seeking flavorful, guilt-free food options.
Whether it’s the distinct taste of their flagship ready-to-toast arepas or the innovative variations made with flaxseed, chia, or cassava root, TOAST-IT consistently delivers products that satisfy both hunger and the desire for authentic Latin American flavors. By incorporating traditional ingredients and crafting each product with care, TOAST-IT ensures a truly exceptional culinary experience.
The impact of TOAST-IT extends far beyond the plate. Through their dedication to Latin American cuisine, the founders have sparked a renewed interest in the rich cultural heritage of the region. By making these delightful snacks accessible and appealing, TOAST-IT has brought Latin American traditions into homes and kitchens across the country. This cultural celebration has not only gained the attention and loyalty of customers but has also opened doors for opportunity and growth for the brand.
Indeed, TOAST-IT’s impact continues to flourish as the company expands its retail footprint and ventures into new territories. With the brand’s steady rise in popularity, TOAST-IT is well on its way to becoming a household name synonymous with Latin American excellence. The future looks incredibly promising for TOAST-IT as it continues to captivate taste buds and delight customers with its exceptional products.
TOAST-IT’s Expansion Plans
Following their successful partnership on “Shark Tank” and with a growing customer base, TOAST-IT is determined to expand its retail footprint beyond Florida. The founders have a clear growth strategy in place, aiming to increase their product line and presence in stores across the United States. One of their exciting plans includes introducing a new variation of their popular arepas called the plantain Bunuelo.
TOAST-IT’s commitment to providing accessible and appealing Latin American food options drives their expansion goals. With their delicious and healthier arepas gaining popularity, the founders are eager to bring their authentic South American snacks to a wider audience nationwide.
TOAST-IT’s retail expansion will not only enable more consumers to enjoy their flavorful and convenient arepas, but it will also further establish the brand’s market presence and contribute to their ongoing success.
TOAST-IT’s Planned Retail Expansion
New Store Locations
Region
Whole Foods
Nationwide
Publix
Florida
Central Markets
South Eastern U.S.
Other Specialty Supermarkets
Various Regions
With plans to expand their product line and secure new distribution channels, TOAST-IT is determined to make their authentic Latin American snacks more accessible than ever before. Embracing the growing demand for healthier and flavorful food options, TOAST-IT’s expansion strategy seeks to meet the needs of a diverse range of customers across the country.
TOAST-IT’s Shark Tank Experience
TOAST-IT’s appearance on “Shark Tank” was an exciting and pivotal moment for the brand. The founders, Maria Fernanda Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas, had the unique opportunity to present their business and showcase their product to a panel of experienced investors, including guest Shark Daniel Lubetzky.
The Sharks were immediately impressed by the delicious taste and exceptional nutritional value of TOAST-IT Arepas. The sisters’ passion for their Venezuelan heritage and their dedication to providing a healthier alternative to traditional South American snacks shone through in their pitch. The positive feedback from the Sharks validated the hard work and commitment that Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina had put into developing their business.
Multiple offers were made, highlighting the immense potential of TOAST-IT. Ultimately, the founders accepted Daniel Lubetzky’s generous offer of $150,000 for 20% equity in the company. This strategic partnership not only provided the necessary funding for growth but also brought on board a knowledgeable and influential industry expert.
The collaboration with Daniel Lubetzky solidified TOAST-IT’s position in the market and unlocked new avenues for expansion. With his guidance and support, the brand is well-equipped to navigate the competitive food industry and achieve even greater success.
TOAST-IT Founder’s Entrepreneurial Journey
The journey of TOAST-IT’s founders, Maria Fernanda Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas, has been an inspiring tale of determination and resilience. After moving from Venezuela to the United States, the sisters faced the challenge of finding convenient options to enjoy their traditional arepas. This led them to embark on their entrepreneurial journey with the creation of TOAST-IT, revolutionizing the accessibility of their cultural food.
Starting a business in the competitive food industry presented its own set of challenges for Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina. However, their unwavering passion and commitment to their vision helped them overcome these obstacles. Striving for authenticity and quality, they focused on developing a strong brand and using high-quality ingredients to resonate with their audience.
The TOAST-IT founders aimed not only to create a successful business but also to showcase their Venezuelan heritage and introduce the wider world to the delicious flavors of arepas. By combining their culinary traditions with innovative business strategies, they managed to establish TOAST-IT as a prominent player in the Latin American food market.
Throughout their entrepreneurial journey, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to their cultural roots. Their dedication to providing a healthier and convenient alternative for enjoying Latin American snacks has been the driving force behind TOAST-IT’s success.
Challenges Faced by TOAST-IT Founders
The path to success for TOAST-IT was not without its share of challenges. As entrepreneurs entering a competitive market, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina had to navigate various obstacles and make tough decisions to establish their brand and differentiate themselves from the competition.
Finding their place in the market: With numerous established food brands in the market, it was essential for TOAST-IT to carve out a niche for itself. The founders had to conduct market research, identify consumer preferences, and develop a unique selling proposition to stand out from the crowd.
Building brand visibility: Building brand awareness is crucial for any business, particularly in the food industry that thrives on customer loyalty. TOAST-IT founders had the challenge of creating a strong brand identity that resonated with their target audience and effectively communicated the unique qualities of their product.
Ensuring product quality: TOAST-IT founders knew that delivering a high-quality product was essential for their success. They faced the challenge of sourcing the best ingredients, optimizing their manufacturing processes, and maintaining consistency in taste and texture to meet customer expectations.
Scaling up production: As demand for TOAST-IT arepas grew, the founders had to tackle the challenge of scaling up production while maintaining the same level of quality. They had to invest in production facilities, employ efficient manufacturing practices, and manage the supply chain effectively to meet the increasing demand.
Despite these challenges, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina’s determination, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to their cultural heritage have propelled TOAST-IT towards success, establishing it as a prominent brand in the Latin American food market.
Challenges Faced by TOAST-IT Founders
Actions Taken
Results
Finding their place in the market
Conducted market research to identify gaps and preferences, developed a unique selling proposition
Established a niche in the market, attracted loyal customers
Building brand visibility
Created a strong brand identity, implemented effective marketing strategies
Gained brand recognition and customer awareness
Ensuring product quality
Sourced high-quality ingredients, optimized manufacturing processes
Delivered consistent and delicious arepas, gained customer trust
Scaling up production
Invested in production facilities, implemented efficient manufacturing practices
Met increasing demand, expanded market presence
TOAST-IT’s Market Presence and Customer Reviews
TOAST-IT has made a significant impact in the market with its flavorful and convenient TOAST-IT Arepas. The brand’s expansion into supermarkets and online platforms has allowed customers to easily access and enjoy their delicious products.
Customer reviews of TOAST-IT Arepas praise the exceptional taste, quality, and nutritional value that these products offer. Customers express their satisfaction and enjoyment, highlighting the authentic flavor and healthier alternative that TOAST-IT provides.
The market presence of TOAST-IT continues to grow as more customers discover and embrace the brand’s commitment to authentic Latin American foods. The positive reception and increasing popularity of TOAST-IT Arepas are a testament to the founders’ dedication to delivering a product that resonates with a wide audience.
Experience the delicious and convenient TOAST-IT Arepas for yourself and see why customers rave about this exceptional snack option.
Review
Customer
Rating
“The best arepas I’ve ever tasted! The flavor is so authentic and the convenience is unbeatable.”
Maria S.
5/5
“TOAST-IT Arepas are my go-to snack. I love that they are gluten-free and made with high-quality ingredients.”
John L.
4.5/5
“Finally, a healthy and tasty snack option that satisfies my cravings. TOAST-IT Arepas are a game-changer!”
Sarah T.
5/5
The Future of TOAST-IT
With its successful partnership on “Shark Tank,” growing customer base, and ambitious plans for expansion, TOAST-IT is primed for a bright future. The founders, Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Vieteis, remain dedicated to their mission of making Latin American food accessible and appealing to a wide audience.
Looking ahead, TOAST-IT has exciting plans in store. The brand is set to introduce new product variations, including a delicious plantain Bunuelo. These additions will provide customers with even more convenience, flavor, and healthier options in Latin American cuisine.
In addition to expanding their product line, TOAST-IT has strategic growth strategies in place. The founders aim to further increase their retail footprint beyond Florida and make TOAST-IT Arepas available in more stores nationwide. By doing so, they aspire to become a household name for those seeking convenient, flavorful, and healthier Latin American food options.
FAQ
Where can I buy TOAST-IT Arepas?
TOAST-IT Arepas can be found in Publix stores in Florida, Central Markets in the southeastern US, and Whole Foods. They are also available for purchase online through Amazon and the TOAST-IT website.
What are TOAST-IT Arepas made of?
TOAST-IT Arepas are made with pre-cooked cornmeal flour called Masarepa. They are gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and preservative-free. TOAST-IT also offers arepas made with flaxseed and chia, as well as arepas made from cassava root.
How do I prepare TOAST-IT Arepas?
TOAST-IT Arepas can be prepared quickly in an air fryer, toaster oven, or regular oven in just five minutes. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results.
What is the nutritional value of TOAST-IT Arepas?
Each serving of TOAST-IT Arepas provides 5 grams of protein. They are a healthier alternative to traditional South American snacks, with no gluten, nuts, sugar, or preservatives.
What is the history of TOAST-IT Arepas?
TOAST-IT Arepas was founded by Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Vieteis, two Venezuelan sisters who wanted to bring their culinary tradition of arepas to the United States. They launched TOAST-IT in 2019 after extensive cooking and testing in their own kitchen.
How successful is TOAST-IT?
TOAST-IT has experienced growing success, with hundreds of orders each week and a presence in numerous supermarkets across the United States and Canada. The founders’ dedication to creating authentic and high-quality Latin American foods has resonated with customers, leading to the brand’s growth and recognition.
What is TOAST-IT’s expansion plan?
TOAST-IT aims to expand its retail footprint beyond Florida and increase its product line. They also have plans to introduce new variations of their arepas, including a plantain Bunuelo.
How was TOAST-IT received on Shark Tank?
TOAST-IT appeared on Shark Tank and received praise from the Sharks for the taste and nutritional value of their arepas. After multiple offers, they accepted a partnership with Daniel Lubetzky.
What challenges did TOAST-IT founders face?
As Venezuelan sisters living in the United States, Maria Fernanda and Maria Corina faced the challenge of finding convenient options for enjoying their traditional arepas. This led them to create TOAST-IT as a solution to bring their cultural food to a wider audience.
What do customers say about TOAST-IT Arepas?
Customers have left positive reviews praising the taste and quality of TOAST-IT Arepas. They appreciate the convenience, flavor, and nutritional value of the products.
What are the future plans for TOAST-IT?
TOAST-IT aims to become a household name for those seeking convenient, flavorful, and healthier Latin American food options. They plan to expand their product line and increase their presence in stores across the United States.
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