During the economic downturn of 2008, they shifted their focus inward, wanting to create their own product line and brand. They were unsure of what exactly they wanted this to be, but they did know they wanted it to be in the one industry they’d never worked in—Housewares.

The team returned to the office thinking about what they could innovate. Through lots of ideation and a bit of serendipity, they created a countertop device that could freeze a popsicle in less than 8 minutes. The device was magical and took on a life of its own. Everyone who tried early prototypes was amazed—and the team realized they might be onto something.

On July 9, 2009, ZOKU met with Williams Sonoma to present their game changing popsicle maker. The very next day, Williams Sonoma called with a large order for the 2009 Holiday season just a few months away. They planned on featuring ZOKU prominently in their catalog and in stores across the country. That season, it was one of the most successful items in their stores and ZOKU created a buzz in the industry.