Cullen helps gardening start-up business bag Dragon’s Den backing

A gardening start-up that uses the latest in compostable packaging innovation has become the latest winner in this season’s Dragon’s Den.

The key component of Grow Sow Simple’s judge-wooing seed kits, which won an £80,000 investment from Dragon Sara Davies, are biodegradable pods made of bespoke moulded fibre by Glasgow-based Cullen Eco Packaging.

Entrepreneur Dan Robson, the man behind Grow So Simple, won backing on the BBC show which aired on 19th January 2023. His flagship seed kits sell in over 150 stores in the UK and has  ‘lucrative’ orders coming in from as far as California.

David MacDonald, owner of Cullen Eco Packaging, said, “Congratulations to Dan and his team on winning the Dragon’s Den investment. Dan is as passionate about innovation and sustainability as we are. Our moulded fibre packaging is a game changer not just for Grow So Simple but also anyone using plastic containers. We can design, engineer and manufacture replacements for most plastic packaging, and currently do so not just with Dan’s great business, but with over 1 billion products per year to companies in 34 countries.”

Dan Robson added, “The idea for my company was born out of my passions for sustainability and making gardening accessible. I am delighted that Sara, whose phenomenal brand was also created off the back of her own obsession for crafting, saw potential in our company at this critical phase in our journey.”

Dragon’s Den panellist and investor, Sara Davies, commented, “I liked Dan the moment I met him and I really resonated with his commitment to giving all people, from all walks of life, the chance to grow their own vegetables. This level of passion, along with a strong concept, is critical for business success so I’m looking forward to seeing him develop and grow his fantastic brand.”