Nana’s Manners on Dragon’s Den

Created and founded by Chris and Kathryn Baldrey-Chourio, Nana’s Manners offers a solution to a problem every parent faces: teaching children to use cutlery confidently and properly. As a former primary school teacher, Kathryn saw first-hand that it was not just her own child that struggled with using a knife and fork; the vast majority struggled, too. So, she and Chris did what nobody had thought to do before: fill this gap in the market by creating child-friendly cutlery.

We were so glad to help them with their cause. Innovate conducted a worldwide patent search for them, helped them apply for a patent, and constructed 3D concept images of the ergonomic cutlery.

It was clear from the beginning that Kathryn and Chris wanted a high-quality product, not just a sellable gimmick. They spent a long time selecting the right manufacturer for them – one that mirrored their own values.

They visited the factory before the process started, and came back when the first production samples were made. It must have been surreal to see their ideas and hard work come to life. Kathryn told us that “it was an amazing experience that will stay with us,” and that they still have the very first orange set at home!

Dragon’s Den was the next step. Kathryn and Chris had identified their role, their product and their ambition. It was time for investment and growth. When asked how he felt on the show, Chris said he was “absolutely terrified,” but that having Kathryn with him was “very reassuring.”

Their chemistry, their product and, most importantly, their humble cause all helped to secure a £50,000 offer from fashion tycoon, Touker Suleyman, in exchange for a 30% stake in Nana’s Manners.

So, where do they go from here?

“We want to go on to produce many more simple and effective products for children,” says Kathryn, “because the best way to build kids’ confidence is to help them learn independently.”

Nana’s Manners will go on to become a household name, and they are one of many that Innovate have helped over the years. If you would like us to do the same for you, request an Info Pack from us today.