A Swansea woman, Laura Harnett, could have lost her life due to breast cancer in her late 30s, but instead, she managed to secure a £50,000 investment from a Dragon’s Den millionaire. Laura, a 47-year-old businesswoman and founder of Seep, an eco-friendly cleaning brand, caught the attention of guest judge Trinny Woodall during the show’s fourth episode of the 22nd series. Trinny, along with Deborah Meaden, decided to invest £50,000 for a 4% share in Laura’s business.
Laura’s battle with breast cancer inspired her to create Seep, as she became more conscious of the impact of plastics on the environment and human health. The lack of sustainable alternatives in the cleaning aisle prompted her to take action and develop 100% plastic-free, compostable, and long-lasting cleaning products. Recognising the potential health risks associated with microplastics, Laura was determined to offer eco-friendly solutions to consumers.
The success of Seep lies in its commitment to sustainability, with all products and packaging being fully recyclable and made from sustainably managed sources. As the only B Corp certified cleaning accessory brand in Europe, Seep has gained traction in major retailers like Tesco, Ocado, and Amazon. Laura’s appearance on Dragons’ Den aimed to further expand her business reach and raise awareness about the benefits of plastic-free cleaning tools.
Facing the Dragons was a nerve-wracking experience for Laura, who described it as a “massive adrenaline rush.” Despite the pressure, she managed to secure investments from both Trinny Woodall and Deborah Meaden, fulfilling her dream of gaining support from influential figures in the sustainability space. The exposure from the show has propelled Seep into new heights, with plans to introduce additional products and expand into more retail outlets.
Looking forward, Laura envisions Seep becoming a global household name and hopes to inspire others to embrace sustainable living practices. Her journey from battling cancer to becoming a successful entrepreneur highlights the power of resilience and determination. By taking risks and pushing boundaries, Laura has proven that it is never too late to pursue your passions and make a positive impact on the world.
As Laura continues to grow Seep and drive her vision of a sustainable future, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and advocates for environmental conservation. Through her innovative products and unwavering commitment to sustainability, Laura is paving the way for a cleaner and greener future. The lessons learnt from her Dragons’ Den experience have shaped her perspective on risk-taking and the importance of seizing opportunities to make a difference.