Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts are two distinct children’s clothing brands founded by Amber and Mark Schaub. Amber launched Rufflebutts in 2007, inspired by the ruffled bloomers she wore as a child, and grew it into a successful business. In 2011, Mark joined the company, and together they introduced Ruggedbutts, a boys’ clothing line. Both brands complement each other and operate as separate entities under the same umbrella. The Schaubs brought their business to Shark Tank in Season 5, seeking strategic partnerships to expand their reach and grow their brands even further.
Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts Net Worth
As of 2024, Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts have an estimated combined net worth of $8.57 million based on their annual revenue of $7 million. The companies, founded by Mark and Amber Schaub, have expanded significantly since their appearance on Shark Tank in Season 5. Despite the Shark Tank deal falling through, their brands have seen sustained growth, with their products now available in major retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Hallmark, as well as hundreds of boutiques worldwide. The brands’ strong reputation in the children’s clothing market continues to drive their financial success, solidifying their place as industry leaders in the children’s apparel sector.
Key Takeaways
- Founders: Mark and Amber Schaub launched Rufflebutts (for girls) in 2007 and Ruggedbutts (for boys) in 2011, creating two successful children’s clothing brands.
- Shark Tank Appearance: They pitched their business on Shark Tank in Season 5, seeking $600,000 for 7% equity, but the deal with Lori Greiner (offering $600K for 9% equity) never closed.
- Current Status (2024): Despite the deal falling through, the companies have continued to thrive, with $7 million in annual revenue and a valuation of $8.57 million.
- Retail Expansion: Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts are sold in major retailers like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Hallmark, and hundreds of boutiques worldwide.
- Growth and Persistence: The Schaubs have built an enduring brand by focusing on quality, customer service, and expanding their reach, even without the Shark Tank investment.
Highlights
- Company Name: Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts
- Founders: Mark and Amber Schaub
- Industry: Children’s Clothing
- Product: Girls’ and boys’ clothing, accessories, and footwear
- Initial Investment Ask: $600,000 for 7% equity
- Shark Tank Offers: Lori Greiner and Barbara Corcoran extended offers, but the deal with Lori for $600,000 at 9% equity ultimately did not close.
- Current Status (as of April 2024): Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts continue to thrive with $7 million in annual revenue.
Overview
| Brand Name | Founded | Founder(s) | Product Focus | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rufflebutts | 2007 | Amber Schaub | Girls’ clothing, accessories, and footwear | Amber started the brand to recreate ruffled bloomers from her childhood. |
| Ruggedbutts | 2011 | Mark and Amber Schaub | Boys’ clothing, accessories, and footwear | Launched by Mark in 2011 to complement Rufflebutts. |
| Combined Business | 2007 | Amber and Mark Schaub | Children’s clothing for boys and girls | Both brands operate under the same umbrella as separate entities. |
| Shark Tank Appearance | Season 5 | Mark and Amber Schaub | Children’s clothing brands | Pitched $600,000 for 7% equity to expand the business. |
Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts Shark Tank Recap
The Schaubs appeared on Shark Tank to pitch their business, seeking $600,000 for 7% equity. With over $3.7 million in annual sales at the time of filming, they projected significant growth, aiming for $5 million in sales in the following year. The couple was proud to share their success as number 8 on the Inc. 500 list of retail businesses, with no debt. Despite their impressive track record, Mr. Wonderful (Kevin O’Leary) and Robert Herjavec opted out, as they felt overwhelmed by the vast inventory and lack of expertise in the fashion sector.
Lori Greiner and Barbara Corcoran both showed interest, with Barbara offering a combination of equity and a $300,000 credit line for 12% of the business. However, Lori sweetened her offer, proposing $600,000 for 10% equity with the expectation of repayment within two years. After some back-and-forth, the Schaubs countered with $600,000 for 8% equity, and Lori agreed to 9%. The Schaubs ultimately accepted Lori’s offer, valuing her expertise in product sales.
Did Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts Get a Deal on Shark Tank?
While the Schaubs initially agreed to a deal with Lori Greiner, the agreement fell through after the show aired. Despite initial reports that the deal would close, it was revealed that the final agreement did not materialize, leaving Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts to continue growing without the Shark Tank investment.
Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts Shark Tank Update (April 2024)
After the show aired, the Schaubs experienced continued growth. The company moved its headquarters to Flower Mound, Texas, in 2021. As of April 2024, Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts are thriving with $7 million in annual revenue. The companies have expanded their distribution to major retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Hallmark, in addition to a growing network of boutiques worldwide. The Schaubs continue to run the two brands separately, with Rufflebutts focused on girls’ clothing and Ruggedbutts on boys’ fashion.
Despite the Shark Tank deal falling through, the Schaubs have proven that persistence and a strong vision can lead to significant success. Their brands are now staples in the children’s clothing market, with an enduring focus on quality and service.
Conclusion
Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts are prime examples of how creative vision and strategic growth can lead to success in the competitive children’s clothing market. Founded by Amber and Mark Schaub, these two distinct yet complementary brands have thrived despite challenges, including a Shark Tank appearance where a deal with Lori Greiner ultimately fell through. However, the Schaubs’ persistence paid off as they expanded their brands into major retailers and achieved $7 million in annual revenue by 2024. With a continued focus on quality and customer service, Rufflebutts and Ruggedbutts stand as a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance in business.
