Shark Tank Pakistan – We have come across these phrases, says “Nothing is impossible when you dare to dream big”, and “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”. Why are we talking about these phrases? Well, do you remember the Pakistani roadside tea seller Arshad Khan who went viral for his good looks in 2016? Life turned upside down, or what we can call 360 degrees for him when he started getting modeling assignments. However, Khan didn’t take the success to his head, instead opened a chain of cafes and worked hard for himself.
Recently, this famous Chaiwala surprised everyone by appearing in the second episode of Shark Tank Pakistan, pitching his product named Cafe Chai Wala. Joined by his mate Kazim Hasan, the duo demanded 1 crore Pakistani rupees (Rs 30 lakh), in exchange for 5 percent equity in the business. What happened next? Let’s find out in this guide.
Creating Chaiwala & Co. – An Exceptional Journey
Arshad showcased his tea brand, Chaiwala & Co., on Shark Tank Pakistan, where he stated that it was going to become an international symbol of Pakistani street culture. The business has two outlets – one in Pakistan and a newly opened one in London. Its base remains to provide true Pakistani chai in the ambiance of a country’s rich street culture.
Arshad’s pitch is not just about selling tea but about creating an experience for customers that would transport them to the bustle of Pakistan’s “chai dhabas.” This model has already captured the imagination of customers at home and abroad.
Arshad not only has presented his entrepreneurial acumen on the show but also strategic expansion plans. According to him, his decision to open in London was strategic, specifically designed to attract attention from both the South Asian diaspora longing for a taste of home and curious local customers. The design and décor are the same as the feel of Pakistani street aesthetics that appeal to a diverse audience and make the cafe unique in a competitive market.
Arshad is fusing authentic Pakistani chai with the unique experience of a customer by bringing out the warmth and community spirit found in local tea stalls. This concept has already struck a chord with customers around the world, which is contributing to its growing success.
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Finalizing the Deal and Impressing the Investors
Arshad began the pitch by stating “My picture in 2016 became viral and went all around the Internet. For some two to three months, I did not even know what was happening to me. And then, I started modeling and acting also. I never left the city of Islamabad before it happened. Most people advising me were that I should open my café. I wished for my café even in that time, even when my café was somebody’s dhaba.”
The first cafe Kazim started was in 2020. It was a rooftop one in Islamabad. But he says, “Just as we were getting ready to take off, the pandemic hit, and we had to start over again. We relaunched in October. Went viral immediately.” He says they have two outlets in Pakistan and three in England.
The Counter
Junaid Iqbal of the Shark has declared that their entire turnover in three years lies approximately over the value of 2 crores. However, Iqbal left since he didn’t possess much knowledge of how hospitality businesses were.
This second deal went back when Shark Faisal Aftab was also out. After some time Rabeel Warraich put in the offer that would hand Rs 1 crore value to Arshad and Kazim, which they were demanding, but with 24 % as equity since the revenues were low
Further, Romanna Dada proposed partnering with Rabeel, while Usman Bashir asked for 30 percent equity and teamed up with Romanna and Rabeel. After a bit of haggling, Kazim and Arshad agreed to the terms presented by Rabeel and Romanna and walked away with funding of PKR 1 crore, approximately ₹30 lakh.
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To Sum It Up
The story of Arshad Khan, who progressed from being a viral sensation to becoming a successful entrepreneur, is inspiring millions: the idea that dreams born with humble beginnings can grow powerful and prosperous.