Continuing to be a huge success on crowdfunding giant, Indiegogo, unique beehive invention, Flow, has successfully raised $3,548,885 thanks to over 6,000 backers.
As previously reported, Flow was created by father-son duo Cedar and Stuart Anderson and is considered a “revolutionary” beehive invention that allows its users to harvest honey without having to open the hive. It also minimizes disturbance to the bees. “Turn the tap and watch as pure, fresh, clean honey flows right out of the hive and into your jar. No mess, no fuss, no expensive processing equipment without disturbance of bees.”
Before making an appearance on Indiegogo, the Andersons posted a video of their invention on YouTube and within two days two days received over 1 million views. Just before the launch, they had interest from 80,000 people and were forced to switch from Kickstarter to Indiegogo, claiming that at the last minute they realized that they needed to cater for the U.S. market, find an American manufacturer and charge in USD (which Kickstarter does not allow). That way, they can overcome exchange rate fluctuations.
Flow’s options include:
- Flow Light ($230-$340): Allows users to enjoy the benefits of Flow frames, especially if they are an existing beekeeper with a hive already. Does not include bees, brood box, and super box.
- Flow Full ($350-$460): Users simply add a Flow frame to existing hive or replace standard frames with Flow frames. Does not include bees, brood box, and super box.
- Complete Full Flow Hive ($600): Contains a complete Flow Hive ready to go. Includes everything but bees.
During a recent update, Cedar shared details about shipping costs to Flow backers:
“Because of all your amazing support we are able to negotiate up to a 50% or more discount off standard shipping rates. DHL is working on some amazing rates for us right now. Expanding manufacturing to the US will also reduce shipping costs for those in America or close by.
“Where possible we will source the wooden hive boxes and frames closer to you to reduce shipping costs and support your local beekeeping suppliers.We will add some estimates of shipping soon. Once again thank you all so much for being a part of this project.”
Also addressing communication issues between the Flow team and backers, Cedar explained:
“We are noticing some of your are concerned about answers and replies not coming fast enough from our support team. Please understand that by contributing on Indiegogo you are supporting our startup. Indiegogo is not a simple e-commerce marketplace, but a way to allow people to play a role in the creation of projects they want to see exist in the world.
We are really proud of the amazing team we have pulled together on short notice to answer the THOUSANDS of emails we are receiving. Our systems are getting more refined and efficient every day. Keep in mind that up until a few days ago we were a tiny team with a shoestring budget working on this as a labour of love.”
Those looking to invest in Flow have until April 5th to fund the project.
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