£75K of Business Support up for Grabs in Luton's Lair

Luton, Bedfordshire, UK – August 2010 – Budding entrepreneurs in the Bedfordshire town of Luton have a glimmer of hope with the launch of a brand new Dragons’ Den-style competition being hosted by the operator of the Town’s indoor market – with a prize worth around £75,000 to the lucky winner. 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 know that there are a lot of people out there that have some great business ideas, but don’t have the necessary money to turn them into reality.” “With our ‘Luton’s Lair’ competition, we will be giving the winner a fantastic opportunity to launch their business in one of our market units, with 12 months absolutely free, so no rent, business rates or utility bills. “This support package is worth around £75,000 so it would allow the business to focus on their day-to-day trade, cushioned by incredibly low start-up costs. The prize can even be split up if the ideas coming through are driven by enough passion and commitment! The market company has assembled an esteemed panel of judges that include Esther Rantzen along with 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 brought to you by the Luton News and Dunstable Gazette. “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 by the end of August. They will then be given a competition rule pack and a further six weeks 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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