£75K Business Competition Deadline Extended
Luton, Bedfordshire, UK – September 2010 – Following last month’s launch of a £75,000, Dragon’s Den-style competition, by the operator of Luton’s indoor market, the organisers have announced that the deadline for registration has been extended by a further two weeks. This has been done to allow budding entrepreneurs that may have missed the competition’s launch due to the summer holidays, have a chance to register their interest. Town and Country Markets Ltd, the company that operates the popular market inside The Mall, is calling on individuals or groups to submit their ideas for establishing a brand new business in the indoor market. Dave Gibbs, market manager, explained: “We have been very pleased with the interest so far, but a few people have told us that they missed the original announcement due to it clashing with their summer holidays.” “We know that there are a lot of people out there that have some great business ideas, but don’t have the necessary means to turn them into reality. With this support package that’s worth around £75,000, somebody is going to get a big helping hand in establishing their business. “The winner will be able to trade in one of our market units absolutely free for the first 12 months, so no rent, business rates or utility bills – leaving them totally free to focus on establishing and growing their idea into a flourishing business.” The entries will be judged by an esteemed panel of judges that include well-known broadcaster and TV personality Esther Rantzen, along with other successful local figures from the town, including: Graham McMullen of the Admiral Group; David Kohler, a property developer and David Tooley, Editor of Luton Business Monthly. “This has to be for a brand new business.” Gibbs continued: “And, importantly, offer something to the market that no existing trader is doing at present.” “Our existing market traders are also being encouraged to participate, but their proposal must be in addition to their existing business, otherwise they’ll end up paying the full rent!” Contestants need to register their interest (without supporting plans initially) by submitting a letter of interest to arrive no later than midnight on Monday, 27th of September. They will then be given a competition rule pack and a further period to prepare and submit a vision that will outline their ideas and demonstrate their commitment. Short-listed candidates will be invited to come along to the final judging interviews event that will be held on Friday 19th November 2010. This final stage of the competition will see each short-listed candidate pitch their ideas to the judges, persuading them why their idea should be supported with the £75,000 package. Entries can be emailed to davegibbs@wellingtonmarkets.co.uk, or posted to Dave Gibbs, Luton Indoor Market, The Mall, Arndale Centre, Luton, LU1 2TA. Further details and full competition rules will be sent out to each applicant. ENDS
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