180 Cup

180 Cup introduced a patented, dual-function disposable party cup that featured a standard 18-ounce cup on one side and a 1.5-ounce shot glass on the other when flipped over. The company was founded by Solomon Fallas, who was inspired to create a more efficient cup after observing the waste from separate beer and shot cups at a college party. Fallas invested $175,000 of his own money to develop the product.

The business gained significant exposure after appearing on Season 5 of "Shark Tank" in 2013, where Fallas pitched the company. He highlighted impressive early traction, having sold five million cups and generated $385,000 in revenue in just six months by using a unique marketing strategy of hiring college students to sell to local stores. After tense negotiations, Fallas secured a $300,000 investment from Daymond John in exchange for 25% equity.

Post-"Shark Tank", the company saw a surge in sales and distribution, with its products available in major retailers like Walmart and Party City, eventually reaching 15,000 stores across five countries. The product line was also expanded to include items like a beer pong set. However, the partnership between Fallas and John dissolved after three years due to strategic disagreements, including a failed licensing deal for a reusable version and a rejected proposal to bring on rapper Lil Jon as a brand ambassador. The company ultimately ceased operations by early 2016, and its website is no longer active.

Keywords: disposable party cup, integrated shot glass, Shark Tank, Solomon Fallas, Daymond John, dual-function cup, party supplies, beverage container, keg parties, beer pong accessories, patented cup design, consumer goods, retail distribution, brand licensing, venture capital