Cumbrian Dragons' Den rejects expand into Europe

A pair of Lake District entrepreneurs who were rejected by the Dragons’ Den panel of investors say sales and enquiries have increased 225% as the business moves into European markets.

Richard Bowness and Steve Tonkin of Truncator appeared on the BBC 2 show earlier this year when they pitched their - a log sawhorse which allows chainsaw users to cut multiple logs at a time.

Despite not securing any investment the business says it has gone from strength to strength in the wake of the publicity it generated.

Truncator has now been introduced into European markets with the appointment of a distributor in the Netherlands and a sales representative in Northern and Southern Ireland. Richard Bowness, owner and inventor of Truncator, said: “It’s fair to say we’ve had a phenomenal few months of trading. Not only have we increased our on-line sales we’ve grown our stockists in the UK and breached the move into Europe too. It has taken a lot of hard work and determination but we are delighted with the results.”

Following exhibiting at the GLEE trade fair in Birmingham and the appearance on Dragon’s Den interest in the product from Europe has increased tenfold and talks with distributors in Poland, Chez Republic and France are also underway.

Following a back injury, Richard, a retired builder from Langdale, Cumbria came up with the initial idea to develop a saw horse which saved time and strenuous effort whilst log cutting for his own needs.

After being convinced of its benefits and following 2 years of development the Truncator saw horse is now fully adjustable in height and width of log. Richard added: “The first thing customers always ask me is how did it feel being on Dragon’s Den - it’s a real talking point. My advice to anyone considering taking part in the show is to go for it - seize the opportunity and don’t give up if you don’t secure investment. Truncator is fantastic example that it’s possible to be a huge success without it.”