Digg
Reddit
StumbleUpon
Facebook
Twitter
del.icio.usDragons' Den investment: Worthenshaws
On Wednesday 14th July, the BBC broadcast the first episode of Dragons' Den series 8. The episode saw Peter co-invest in his first investment of the series; a frozen dessert under the brand name 'Worthenshaws.'
At 24, Kirsty Henshaw, a mum and entrepreneur from Preston, became one of the youngest entrepreneurs to receive investment on the show. The Worthenshaws brand is a healthy alternative to ice cream that not only tastes delicious but is also free from sugar and an array of common allergens including dairy, soya and nuts.
Kirsty was inspired to create the range by her 4 year old son Jacob who has a serious nut allergy and is intolerant to dairy and gluten.
Kirsty said "Having been brought up in a vegetarian and healthy household, I am aware that many desserts on the market contain lots of saturated fats or are labelled as 'low-fat' but actually contain a high amount of added sugar or are laced with artificial sweeteners and flavourings. I don't want to eat these and I certainly don't want Jacob eating anything artificial or high in sugar and fat. This highlighted the need for a range of desserts tailored to people with eating restrictions or for those who just enjoy eating natural and healthy foods."
Having made it through the pitch to the Dragons, Kirsty was in the enviable position of being able to choose between competing offers eventually settling on a deal with Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne.
Since the show was recorded Kirsty has been working closely with the Peter Jones's office team and she has secured a licensing deal with R&R Ice Cream Limited, Europe's largest ice cream manufacturer, who will make and distribute the range and expect to secure distribution in all of the leading grocery outlets.
Peter Jones said "I am absolutely delighted to be supporting Kirsty; she has the spirit and enthusiasm essential in today's budding entrepreneurs. Her product was a great success on the show and I've subsequently tested the range with my kids who fortunately agreed with their Dad's verdict!"
We will be keeping you up to date with all of Peter's investments via the site. Check back regularly to keep abreast of the updates including when and where you can get your hands on some Worthenshaws.
Follow Kirsty on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Kirsty_Henshaw
Another