New or very old ideas in the Lion's Den? (Episode 7, Season 18)

From clever use of storage space and magical family moments to innovative natural cosmetics and plant-based milk alternatives, the range of pitches could hardly be greater. And there's a surprise that's never happened on the show before. But first, let's discuss one of the most viral products from recent episodes:

Did Eazy Step take inspiration?

In the fifth episode of the current season, EazyStep from Hanover, Germanywhich describes itself as a "step-in aid for bathtubs & showers" (quote: https://eazystep.de/ | as of 5.10.2025), presented itself in the Lion's Den. While there was no deal in the show, the clip on Instagram became one of the most successful clips in the show's history with currently 61 million views. While many viewers were still wondering why there was no deal, critical comments were quickly made that the system had been around for a very long time. The comment from Peter Lammer, who describes himself as the floating chef, was particularly striking: "...the invention has been hanging in my kitchen for 8 years and I think eazystep has picked up some great ideas from our intellectual property! Standing Ovation is the name of our invention and it is a support for anyone who can no longer stand so well. Many workstations have been equipped with it. It goes from lower leg amputations, polio, polytrauma and much more. It's good that our idea has found another application - it's just a pity that it hasn't been approved by us. Greetings to you all - the floating chef from Salzburg Peter Lammer" (comment account peter.lammert.standingovation on the Instagram reel: DO74JxijBd-).

...the invention has been hanging in my kitchen for 8 years and I think eazystep has picked up some great ideas from our intellectual property!

Peter Lammer, the floating cook

The product is sold on the homepage https://www.standingovation.at/ and presented with many videos. The site also lists a corresponding patent with the number Pat.: # AT519729 B1. The application for this patent was filed in 2017 and was granted in the course of time. The brief description of the patent makes it clear why accusations of inspiration are being made here: "... The orthopaedic standing and walking aid comprises a carriage which is displaceably mounted on a running rail, an approximately C-shaped frame suspended on the carriage by means of a suspension device and a saddle which is arranged on the C-shaped frame approximately in a straight line below the suspension device..."

Further role models?

However, the story is not over yet, because among the comments you can also find individual English voices claiming that these systems have been around in the USA for over 20 years, even in motorized form. If you search the Internet for ceiling lift systems with rails, you will come across a large number of solutions, whether from Guldmann or other suppliers. And if you read even further into the subject, you will come across patent DE1061983B by inventor Erich Pleisser from 1952, for example:"Work seat suspended freely suspended from the trolley which can be moved on a rail". Due to time constraints, we have stopped our research at this point and each reader should now be able to make their own assessment.

The current program

Ceiling miracle: storage space on the ceiling

With Deckenwunder, Jacobi and Pichler present a storage system that makes use of unused space under the ceiling. Rails and stable boxes create order and can hold up to 30 kilograms. The lions show interest, but also see challenges with the price. Janna Ensthaler praises the idea, but criticizes the cost of around 100 euros per box. Ralf Dümmel recognizes great potential: "Every cellar, every storage room is full." Whether this is enough to land a deal remains to be seen. Offer: 200,000 euros for 20% of the company shares.

IRONDOTS: Pitch with a glitch

Napiórkowski wants to present two secure offline messenger apps with IRONDOTS. But the pitch gets out of hand: the founder loses the thread and is unable to explain either the product or its benefits. Despite the patience of the lions, no deal is struck - instead, an unexpected twist leads to the announced premiere of the episode. Offer: 125,000 euros for 10% of the company shares.

The Wichtelbox: Magic for families

The Wichtelbox brings a Scandinavian Christmas tradition to Germany. For 31 days, families receive stories, letters and little surprises for their children.

The most beautiful things in life cannot be touched - this is a wonderful project.

Janna Ensthaler, Lioness

The Aigner couple combine sporting discipline and entrepreneurial experience. Hannes is an Olympic medal winner in canoe slalom, while Elena brings marketing and management expertise to the table. The pride of lions will decide whether the Christmas magic is enough for an investment. Offer: 150,000 euros for 10% of the company shares

Tallow Naturals: skin care with beef tallow

With Tallow Naturals, the Spiegels focus on natural cosmetics made from beef tallow - and surprise with impressive figures: sales of 2.4 million euros in twelve months, over 100,000 orders and a six-figure profit. Ece Spiegel explains:"Our products help people with extremely dry skin or neurodermatitis." The lions are enthusiastic. Judith Williams talks about first-mover potential, while Ralf Dümmel and Carsten Maschmeyer are impressed by the performance of the founding couple. Several offers ultimately lead to a real lion competition. Offer: 300,000 euros for 5% of the company shares

Pinù: Plant-based milk alternative with pistachios

Former national soccer player Marvin Plattenhardt starts a new career with his wife Sara: Their company Pinù produces Germany's first vegan pistachio drink. The plant-based milk alternative is free from lactose, gluten, oils and flavors - and is said to have a nutty taste."Now I'm devoting all my energy to our start-up," says Plattenhardt. The pitch will show whether the move from the pitch to the start-up studio is a success. Offer: 150,000 euros for 10% of the company shares

Conclusion

The new episode of Die Höhle der Löwen combines inventiveness, emotion and entrepreneurial passion. Between family magic, natural cosmetics and plant-based innovation, the show promises not only exciting pitches, but also a moment that has never been seen before in the show's history.

Broadcast: Monday, October 6, 8:15 p.m. on VOX