Jo Malone, one of Britain's most successful female entrepreneurs, comes to BBC One next spring with a new 4-part series which gives budding entrepreneurs the chance to take a product they have created to the next level.
The nationwide search for applicants launches today. Jo is looking for people who have an original product or range which they believe has the potential to make the leap from kitchen table to high street. Those who are chosen by Jo will benefit from her expertise, experience and guidance. Each of the four episodes will focus on a different category, for example, home & garden, food & drink, children, and accessories.
Once Jo has selected those who she believes to have real potential, she will guide them through the world of branding, public relations and business, and prepare them for a pitch to a major retailer. Will they be able to convince them to take a chance on a new product during this period of commercial uncertainty? Growing and sustaining a business during a time of recession is a great challenge.
They are set to discover how much it takes to try and make a small business work. Jo knows how hard it is but with creativity, sheer hard work, direction and, perhaps, a bit of luck, there are possibilities out there.
Talking about the series, Jo Malone says: "In a previous recession I was a small business trying to become more successful. I learnt so much from that time. Through this series, I will support and encourage a range of entrepreneurs to try and realise their dreams and fly the flag for British retail. I hope that by empowering people with the belief that they can succeed we can help these fledgling businesses meet the challenges they face at this time."
Jo began her career as a therapist and in the early 1990's she created her first product - a scented bath oil - which she hand-mixed at home and gave to her facial clients as a thank you. The gift was an instant success and by 1994 she opened her first store. The company grew into an international brand of luxury fragrances, skin care and lifestyle products. In 1999, the brand was acquired by Estee Lauder Companies and Jo remained Founder and Creative Director until her departure in 2006.
BBC Executive Producer, Alison Kirkham, says: "Jo Malone is an exciting and formidable new talent for BBC One. With her entrepreneurial flair and passion for creativity, she is sure to inspire anyone looking to take their fledgling business to the next level."
For more information and to apply visit bbc.co.uk/beonashow and click on New Brands. ALternatively contact Edward Phillips on 0207 438 4294 or email ed.phillips@twofour.co.uk to find out more and request an application form. The series is made by Twofour. Executive Producers for Twofour, Nav Raman and Melanie Leach; Series Producer, Nicole Streak. BBC Commissioning Editor, Jo Ball; BBC Executive Producer, Alison Kirkham.
