An Indian business called Hecoll produces materials that shield you from pollution. Their products are effective against 99% of UV radiation and 95% of pollutants. It also destroys bacteria and viruses, such as the corona virus. Because their products may be utilized in both the medical profession and daily life, they have a broad market. The entrepreneur went on to say that they have so far produced 20 products, such as baby wrap, ICU patient clothes, and apparel for nurses and doctors.
Reaching the general public and assisting them in leading healthy and sustainable lives is the company’s aim. The company valued their business at ₹100 crores and sought a ₹1 crore investment for 1% of the company.

Hecoll started as a fabric business but due to covid, they collaborated with the central government to make masks for COVID-19 which were stitched in the House. At the time of the pitch, Hecolll was operating in a mixed business with 25% stitched products and 75% fabric which is sold in a B2B model. The founder shared that their product is lab-tested and proven which makes them unique.

Company Name: Hecoll

Founder: Deepti Nathala

City: Hyderabad

Product: Materials that shield you from pollution

Highlights

• Hecoll protects you from 95 percent pollution 99 percent UV rays and it kills viruses and bacteria including corona virus.
• Deepti is two years junior to Vinita. Same branch, same hostel of IIM Ahmedabad.
• Sharks concern Are you doing a fabric business or a garment business, or made-ups?
• Ashneer raised what so special about your fabric that it can outcompete other fabric vendors?
• Anupam suggests if you’ve really cracked the technology part there’s a big opportunity for licensing. Your energy should go to R & D.
• Namita told after the feedbacks from shark you will grow a lot and there is competition in this market and I don’t think I can help you.
• Aman Said I like your technology. If you make that famous you can take it anywhere. If you acquire the patent of this it change your career and others’ career also. It’s corona now, it’ll be something else later. This technology is great but I’m out.

Pitch Details

Ask: ₹1 Crore for 1% equity

Deal: No Deal.

Conclusion

While Hecoll’s focus on destroying bacteria and viruses from clothing had potential, the Sharks identified significant challenges in scaling and standing out in the competitive apparel industry. Constructive feedback emphasized the need for strong branding, marketing, and strategic planning to carve a niche in the market.

Significant findings

• Market Competition
• Scalability Concerns
• Branding and Marketing
• Branding is Crucial
• Scalability Matters
• Market Differentiation

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Ashneer Grover pointed out the importance of founders’ self-awareness and growth potential. It’s crucial for entrepreneurs to recognize their strengths and weaknesses to scale successfully.
2. Dipti’s pitch of the company being an established brand was challenged. Sharks emphasized that understanding the true market position and growth potential is key to attracting investments.
3. Ashneer mentioned that Dipti needed a co-founder for better business management and growth, highlighting the significance of a strong team in business development.
4. Anupam Mittal pointed out that it was too early for a deal, emphasizing that businesses in their early stages need clear strategies for growth and scalability.
5. Vineeta Singh pointed out the importance of justifying business valuation. Entrepreneurs need to back their claims with data and solid projections to attract investors.
6. Aman Gupta advised against trying to do too many things at once. Founders should maintain clarity of focus to avoid confusion and to effectively manage their business.
7. Namita Thapar stated she couldn’t add value to the business, stressing that an investor’s role is not just financial but also about providing strategic guidance and support.
8. The episode highlighted the importance of market understanding and business maturity when pitching to investors, as investors need confidence in the founders’ ability to take the business forward.
9. The Sharks’ decisions to go out based on early-stage challenges show that investors are willing to support businesses with great potential but need clear plans and long-term vision.