TWO BROTHERS have enjoyed success on Dragon’s Den thanks to support from a Northwich-based charity.
Christian and Ross Laing appeared on the hit BBC show as it aired its new series last night.
The pair, along with Christian’s fiancée Natalie Dixon, started Stand Out Socks in October 2021 – selling brightly coloured and uniquely printed socks, gifts and t-shirts.
Their business proved to be a hit with the dragons, with four of the five laying out offers.
In the end, Peter Jones and Steven Bartlett agreed to invest £15,000 each in return for a 12.5 per cent share each.
Ross, who was born with Down Syndrome, wanted to raise awareness of the condition and spread the message to others with learning or physical disabilities to not be afraid to stand out from the rest, with his line of eccentric socks.
Supporting Ross and co on their journey has been the team at Northwich-based charity, Down Syndrome Cheshire.
Chair of the charity Julie Duff, who lives in Hartford, said: “We are so chuffed that brothers Christian and Ross secured Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones as their funding dragons! The best outcome for a truly inspiring and hard-working team.
“It wasn’t just the dragons that were on fire - they scorched it!
“We have been massive supporters of the boys, who are based in Cheshire, right from the very start. “Our patrons and community champions have been big-hearted corporate sponsors, buying their socks as gifts for customers and clients over the years.”
She added: “For us as a charity the greatest bit of their Dragon’s Den pitch was the rallying cry we so passionately advocate. Creating greater employability opportunities for all members of the Down syndrome community.
“Well done Stand Out Socks on a truly standout performance. This year is set to be the breakthrough year for workplace equality for the Down syndrome community.”
Steven Bartlett took to LinkedIn to share his excitement with his latest investment.
"I’m now in the sock business!" he wrote.
"My first investment in the den this year!
"I’m often asked what I’m looking for in the den, and I’ll be honest with you, more often than not it’s great entrepreneurs and an important mission. This trio had both."
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