Dragon tamer Kirsty wins experts’ backing
A LANCASHIRE entrepreneur has become one of the youngest to secure investment on the TV show Dragons’ Den after impressing judges with a healthy range of frozen desserts.
Kirsty Henshaw, 24 from Preston created a healthy alternative to ice cream because her four -year old son Jacob has a serious nut allergy and is intolerant to dairy products.
The desserts, which are made under the brand name Worthenshaws, are free of sugar and an array of common allergens including dairy, soya and nuts.
Last night, in the first episode of the latest series of Dragons Den she stuck a deal with two of the notoriously hard to impress Dragons, Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne. The pair have invested £65,000 for a 30% stake in her business.
Her success was not just down to good fortune – she has been working with Business Link North West since 2008 to get her product to market.
Kirsty said: “Going on the show was a great experience and I’m really thankful to Business Link North West, for all the support they gave me in getting this far.
“My adviser has been brilliant and really gave me the confidence to go for it, as well as giving great practical support.”
Kirsty was advised by John Gardner, a food and drink adviser for Business Link North West, who helped Kirsty develop her product, putting her in touch with a manufacturer and packaging supplier.
Since the show was recorded Kirsty has been working with Peter Jones’ team and she has struck a licensing deal with R&R Ice Cream, one of Europe’s largest ice cream makers, who will manufacture and distribute the range.
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.”
Kirsty was also supported by the University of Central Lancashire with guidance on business management and financial skills support.
UCLan’s DesignLab team also helped develop her brand, website, packaging and promotional materials.
