Biography of Intisar Bashir: Founder & CEO of Browndages -Entrepreneur
Biography of Intisar Bashir:
Browndages: The Inclusive Bandages for People of Color
Intisar Bashir and her husband Rashid Mahdi co-founded
Browndages in 2018 after noticing that the bandages available for their
children didn’t match their skin tones. This realization led them to create
their own line of bandages, which they proudly marketed as "band-aids for
people of color." Their goal was simple yet powerful: to offer inclusive
products that made people feel seen and represented.
The Birth of Browndages
The inspiration behind Browndages stemmed from a common but
overlooked issue—traditional bandages didn’t blend in with darker skin tones.
As they started their journey, Intisar and Rashid initially focused on creating
bandages for adults. However, the idea evolved further when their children
asked for bandages featuring characters that resembled them. This led to the
development of bandages with superhero and princess designs, created by an
artist who drew images of their own kids as astronauts, veterinarians, and
more.
Taking the Concept to the Next Level
Soon, the couple began offering customizable character
bandages, where customers could send in photos of their own children to be
transformed into unique characters on the bandages. The idea quickly gained
traction, and the bandages sold out in record time, especially during the
social unrest of 2020, which greatly boosted their visibility and sales.
Expanding the Range
Browndages now come in a variety of skin tones, including
caramel, ebony, wheat, sand, and mocha. The company sells these in packs of
individual shades or as a variety pack. They also offer distinct packs for both
boys and girls, as well as unisex options for kids. Adult packs cost $3.99 for
20 bandages, while kids’ packs retail for $4.99. Available primarily through
their website, Browndages are also sold in about 25 independent stores across
the United States.
The Pitch on Shark Tank
Intisar and Rashid appeared on Shark Tank during season 13,
hoping to expand their business. They sought a $75,000 investment for a 7.5%
equity stake, aiming to grow their brand and gain entry into larger retail
spaces. During their pitch, they demonstrated the bandages' unique appeal by
showing a standard bandage that did not match Rashid’s skin tone, highlighting
the importance of their product.
Biography of Intisar Bashir: Founder & CEO of Browndages -Entrepreneur# startup#age#net worth#investor#shark tank#Browndages story#Intisar Bashir
Challenges and Successes
In their pitch, they revealed that after social unrest in
2020, their sales skyrocketed to $130,000 in just six days, though they sold
out and couldn’t restock for four months. By mid-2021, they had earned $50,000
in sales. Despite operating in a niche market, their brand has been driven
largely by word-of-mouth and social media buzz, with normal sales running
between $7,500 and $10,000 monthly.
The Sharks’ Offer
The Sharks were initially intrigued but also skeptical about
scaling the business. Intisar and Rashid shared that they had been approached
by Dollar General for an exclusive contract, but the couple felt it was not the
right fit. With their pricing competitive, Rashid proposed expanding their
market reach by selling to hospitals, daycares, and schools, a strategy that
could potentially boost their distribution.
Kevin O'Leary's Proposal
Kevin O'Leary was the first Shark to make an offer,
proposing $75,000 for 15% equity, suggesting that the company could be licensed
out to the big players in the industry. While the deal seemed tempting, Intisar
and Rashid were looking for a partner who could help them grow their brand
beyond licensing.
Lori Greiner, Mark Cuban, and Daymond John Join Forces
Lori Greiner, Mark Cuban, and Daymond John came together
with an offer to provide $100,000 for 7.5% equity each. In addition, they
promised to help the company expand into retail and other markets. They also
extended a $75,000 line of credit to assist with scaling. This offer was more
aligned with the couple’s vision for growth, but there was still room for
negotiation.
Negotiation and Counteroffers
After discussing their options, Intisar and Rashid countered
with a revised proposal: $100,000 for 7.5% equity per Shark, with each Shark
also contributing a $75,000 line of credit. Mark, Lori, and Daymond agreed to
this deal, excited to work with the couple and support the brand’s expansion
efforts.
The Deal That Almost Was
Though the deal seemed promising, the partnership with the
Sharks never officially closed. One potential reason for this could be the
overwhelming surge in sales following the Shark Tank airing, as the couple’s
sales spiked after the episode’s broadcast. Despite this, Browndages remained
active in their business, continuing to grow through word of mouth and social
media.
Rising Above Competition
In the wake of their appearance on Shark Tank, Browndages
saw massive growth, even as larger companies like Band-Aid, owned by Johnson
& Johnson, began to introduce their own flesh-tone bandages. This led to a
wave of social media reactions, where influencers and advocates praised
Browndages for leading the charge in inclusive products.
Current Status and Achievements
As of 2022, Browndages has surpassed $1 million in lifetime
sales, with a loyal customer base continuing to support the brand. The company
now offers not just bandages, but also pajamas, first-aid kits, balms, and
books, further expanding their product range. Their growth and commitment to
inclusivity have made them a significant player in the niche market of diverse
medical products.
Looking Ahead
With Browndages now established in dozens of stores across
the country, the company’s future looks bright. While larger players in the
market have taken note, Browndages’ commitment to diversity and inclusivity
continues to set them apart, ensuring that they will remain a significant force
in the industry for years to come.
Timeline for story
2018: Intisar Bashir and Rashid Mahdi co-found Browndages
after realizing a lack of skin-tone matching bandages.
2020: Sales surge during social unrest, reaching $130,000 in
six days.
2021: Browndages earns $50,000 in sales, growing via
word-of-mouth and social media.
2021: Intisar and Rashid pitch Browndages on Shark Tank,
seeking $75,000 for 7.5% equity.
2021: The Sharks make offers, and Intisar and Rashid counter
with a revised proposal.
Post-Shark Tank (2021): Despite high sales post-episode, the
deal with the Sharks never closes.
2022: Browndages surpasses $1 million in lifetime sales and
expands product offerings.
2022 and beyond: Browndages continues to grow, expanding
into new markets and stores across the U.S.
