Single Mum Goes from Teen Pregnancy to Dragons' Den and £15m Empire

From Teen Pregnancy to Business Success

A single mum, Kirsty Henshaw, has shared her incredible journey from teen pregnancy to becoming a successful entrepreneur featured on Dragons' Den and now boasting a £15 million empire. Growing up in a working-class household in Preston, Lancashire, Kirsty became a single mum at the age of 19.

A Mother's Inspiration

Kirsty's business idea was sparked by her son Jacob's severe nut and dairy allergy. To make her son's life safer and simpler, she created a dairy-free ice cream recipe in her tiny kitchen, which laid the foundation for her multi-million-pound business.

Dragons' Den Success

In 2010, Kirsty appeared on Dragons' Den, securing a £65,000 investment from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne. This initial investment helped her expand her brand, Kirsty's, into a range of free-from ready meals, eventually becoming the UK's number one free-from ready meal brand worth £15 million.

From Ice Cream to Ready Meals

What started as an idea for dairy-free ice cream evolved into a line of frozen and chilled ready meals, pizzas, and desserts. Kirsty's products can now be found in major supermarkets across the UK, catering to a wider audience beyond those with allergies.

Building a Sustainable Business

Kirsty's brand now operates from a factory in Yorkshire, with 90% of its products being made there. The company is also committed to becoming carbon-neutral and currently employs around 60 staff, including Kirsty's son Jacob, who inspired the business in the first place.

Future Growth and Legacy

Kirsty's business continues to thrive, with annual sales reaching £15 million and plans to increase to £25 million in the next two years. Kirsty hopes to normalize free-from food that is not only healthy but also delicious, aiming to show her children the rewards of hard work and determination.