Mon, 8 Dec 2008
Series finale sees firm secure developmental cash injection.
A company that collects, separates and recycles construction waste has secured one of the biggest-ever investments in the closing episode of BBC business show Dragon's Den.
Paul Tinton, the managing director of Reigate-based Prowaste, secured £200,000 plus the backing of Deborah Meaden and Duncan Bannatyne after presenting his pitch to the Den's panel of business experts.
According to Contract Journal, Mr Tinton impressed the Dragons by revealing that his firm is one of only a few capable of collecting all forms of industrial waste, while also offering waste consultancy and planning services.
Ms Meaden, whose business ventures have included everything from running a prize bingo concession at Butlin's to masterminding the management buyout of Weststar Holidays, told the show's presenter Evan Davies that she had been hooked by Prowaste's certification system, which enables companies to prove they are meeting waste regulations.
"Whilst it's difficult to get too excited about waste management it was clear that Paul and his business partner Colin had identified a real need in a fairly traditional marketplace," she added.
Prowaste's victory in the Den was seen by an audience of 3.44 million people, according to Digital Spy.
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