The Business Class is a new seven-part series that will see entrepreneur and investor James Caan, joined by experts from a cross section of industries, looking at the challenges and opportunities faced by six UK businesses.
The featured businesses are at different stages in their lifecycle, from start-up to those looking to raise finance, expand internationally and considering flotation or selling their business.
The Business Class will discuss the key issues facing today’s SMEs, the resources available to them and what is needed to become successful. Each 30 minute episode will feature an innovative business which is seeking guidance to help it grow in today’s market place.
Caan, who returns to our screens a year after leaving Dragons’ Den, will use his first-hand experience of building and growing companies to discuss the challenges and offer advice with the guest experts, each providing their own candid insight and growth strategy.
“Lots of people think about becoming an entrepreneur and starting their own business,” says Caan. “This series will take a look at real businesses and help them navigate their way to greater success. I’m delighted to be part of a fresh new series which will not only look at the real issues facing small businesses today, but will give sound and relevant advice for all business – whatever their life stage.”
The Business Class debuts on 17 October at 10.00pm
The first episode will feature LUX FIX, a members-only online fashion boutique. Founded in 2011, it offers customers exclusive discounts on a selection of current-season collections from the most exciting young and established British designers. The company is run by ex-Goldman Sachs analyst Alice Hastings-Bass and her childhood friend, digital marketing professional Rebecca Glenapp.
Companies featured in other episodes will include:
Kwickscreen – the manufacturer of portable, retractable, room dividers, based in in Battersea and with a factory in Corby
Imagematch Social Enterprise – based in Shrewsbury, an innovative training company working with young unemployed people to support them in the transition to permanent employment
Shutl – a branded web service company based in Shoreditch, enabling immediate and convenient delivery of online shopping
BrewDog – a craft brewer based in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire
Ovo Energy – a gas and electricity supplier based in Kemble, near Cirencester.
