LoLo Lids is now Trinken and the new design is even cooler than the original.
When Jerry McArthur launched LoLo Lids, the ultimate stealth koozie, last year on Kickstarter he could not have expected the level of success it reached during his first 30-day crowdfunding campaign. The snap-on lid, think Starbucks looking coffee cup lid, raised over $50K, exceeding the original goal of $20K by 225%. Hype from notable influencers Thrillist, The Chive, Gizmodo and several others helped LoLo Lids become an internet sensation. Even after the original Kickstarter campaign the LoLo Lid has gone on to sell another 25,000 units via the newly formed company website.
Yet, the same hype and PR that elevated the company from idea to reality also provided all the nails for the company’s first coffin. What was meant to be a hilarious parody on the iconic design of a coffee lid, ended with a cease and desist letter, and destruction of current molds and inventory.
Even though it might seem like you don't have the budget at the start, valuable legal advice could save you a lot of time and money the long run. Trinken spent the last year making decisions that favoured building our brand over profit and now most of that is down the drain. If you even think there might be a possibility of an issue it's probably best to stay clear. A young company isn't going to have the funds to fight an established one whether or not you think you're in the right.
This “speed bump” may have crushed the majority of entrepreneurial spirits but this closed window only opened a new door. The LoLo Lids team is back, now operating as Trinken, German for Drinking, with a version 2.0 design that keeps the fun spirit of the product in tact and introduces design solutions that improve on the functionality of the original lid. Trinken is launching their second Kickstarter campaign on November 16th in conjunction with the airing of the Dragon’s Den, Canada’s Shark Tank, episode where they got to showcase their new ideas in front of an audience of millions.
A big improvement to the design is now the entire middle is recessed making it even easier to coyly enjoy your favorite canned beer. The Trinken Lid snaps on the top of any can and suspends it in the cup using patent pending technology. This forms an air barrier similar to what you’d find in a thermos and provides an insulating factor greater than a foam koozie, and the stealth of looking like a coffee lid. Trinken Lids fits on just about any large coffee cup.
One of the great benefits of crowdfunding is crowd feedback. Jerry and team listened and for the new upcoming Kickstarter campaign they designed a much requested collapsible cup along with the lid so you’ll never be stuck without a cup again. The cup also features a bottom that can be frozen to chill drinks down. The Kickstarter will also include several new innovations including a 6-pack ice mold and an awesome keychain that open beers and acts as a phone stand.
Trinken Lids Kickstarter campaign launches on November 16th and you can get a direct link to the campaign here.Cheers!
