Success for Gill on Dragon’s Den

MUM-of-three Gill Goodchild had never made a presentation in her life before stepping into the Dragon’s Den. 

The thought of facing Online Dragons Shaf Rasul and Julie Meyer had reduced the 52-year-old costume-maker to a shaking nervous wreck. 

However Gill of Hornchurch Essex, battled her nerves to deliver a composed pitch and secure £35k of investment from Scots entrepreneur Shaf. 

She said: “It was one of the most exciting yet daunting experiences of my life. 

“It was very intimidating to face Shaf and Julie and to think that everything you say is going to be viewed by millions of people. 

“However despite having no presentation experience, I managed to compose myself and deliver an impressive pitch.” 

Gill gave up 40 per cent of Costume Workshop Direct – which makes costumes for dance schools, drama clubs and theatre groups - to secure the investment from Edinburgh-based Shaf. 

She added: “I had a figure in mind when I went in and I was happy to secure the deal. For me it wasn’t so much about the capital investment, it was about meeting someone that could help me and channel me in the right direction. 

“I’ve never been able to find a partner that was interested in my business and who had the right contacts to open doors for me.” 

Gill, 52, said she hopes her success will be an inspiration to other people living across Havering. 

She added: “I think if you love what you’re doing and you have enough self belief, anything is possible, whatever age you are.” 

Shaf’s wealth was estimated at £48million in the recent Sunday Times Rich List. 

His core business interests include optical-media distribution business E-Net Computers which he established in 2000. It is now the largest storage media distributor in Europe and one of the biggest buyers of optical storage products in the world. 

He said: “When Gill pitched to us I was extremely impressed by her as a person and was keen to work with her. 

“We have completely re-structured her business and she now has the platform to go forward with the demand for her products and services.” 

Gill added: “It has been an absolutely incredible experience and I have to pinch myself when I see how much the business has developed in such a short time. 

“I have a new website under construction which will develop my online commercial presence. I’m also in discussions with major supply partners and continually exploring new ways and directions to take the business. 

Gill has been married to husband Paul for 22 years and has three children – Charles, Abigail and Paige.