Duncan Bannatyne backs clothing business plan

Sep 25 2009 by Iain Laing, The Journal

A YOUNG entrepreneur’s hopes of opening a fashion store have been realised with help from a television Dragon.

Jade Stephenson, 21, will open her Wardrobe business after winning free rent, rates, services and insurance in a competition judged by leisure tycoon Duncan Bannatyne.

After winning the prize worth £60,000 in the Shopstart competition run by Wellingston Square shopping centre in Stockton she is poised to go into business before Christmas selling secondhand clothes which have barely been worn.

Jade said: "I'm amazed and delighted to have this opportunity. Wellington Square is a great location for my new business, which I would like to call Wardrobe, and I can't wait to get started.

"The presentation was a bit scary. When I knew Duncan Bannatyne was going to be there, I made sure I knew what I was talking about and did my homework, but figured that I should just go for it. In the end I've gained a chance to fulfil my dream job and set up my own business much earlier than I ever thought I would!"

Of almost 20 entries received, just four were asked to attend for a presentation of their business ideas to five judges, including a question session with TV dragon Duncan Bannatyne.

Mr Bannatyne said: "We definitely picked the right business idea that had the most depth and made sense in the current economic climate. I am looking forward to seeing how Jade develops the business over the coming years".

Jade lives at home with her parents and two brothers on the Wynyard estate near Billingham, and has gained retail experience by working in Marks & Spencer for the last three years.