Facing the Dragons' Den panel can be an intimidating experience for any entrepreneur. Presenting an idea to five seasoned business moguls, while under the scrutiny of millions of BBC viewers, adds immense pressure to secure an investment deal.
In 2017, Nicola Wood, a 53-year-old hair expert from Bury, Greater Manchester, bravely entered the boardroom to pitch her innovative haircare brand, Hair Made Easi. She introduced the Easiweft—a product designed to simplify the care of hair extensions, allowing users to wash, dry, style, and store hair with ease. Her package also included practical salon must-haves like combs and brushes, filling a notable gap in the market.
However, when it came to finances, Nicola revealed she needed an £80,000 loan, with half earmarked to buy out her business partner. She also disclosed that the company was operating at a £14,000 loss, though she remained hopeful about recovering these figures. Nicola offered a 25% stake in her business to any Dragon willing to invest.
READ MORE: Urgent Search Underway for Missing Gloucester Woman with Prosthetic Leg
READ MORE: Jeremy Clarkson’s Complex Love Life: From Marriages and Legal Battles to Long-Term Romance
Despite her passion and vision, the Dragons were unconvinced. Peter Jones notably criticized her plan to buy out her partner, calling it “appalling” and subsequently declined to invest. Faced with rejection from all five Dragons, Nicola left the Den emotional, admitting she cried after the tough encounter.
Yet, Nicola’s resolve only strengthened. Rejecting the negativity, she vowed to push forward and make her business a success without external investors. Her determination paid off—in 2024, she proudly announced that Hair Made Easi had surpassed £1 million in turnover.
Reflecting on her Dragons’ Den journey, Nicola told the Manchester Evening News, “Dragons' Den was an amazing experience, even though some of the comments were a bit harsh. I cried when I came out of there.” She added, “If I saw Peter Jones today, I’d probably shake his hand and say thank you very much for NOT investing. If they had invested, I don’t think I’d be here now. I’ve achieved everything since without any external investment.”
Nicola’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience and belief in one’s vision can turn setbacks into remarkable success.