Dragons’ Den TrackerWhat Happened to Sweet-Escott Aviation Ltd After Dragons’ Den?
Sweet-Escott Aviation Ltd appeared on Dragons’ Den in 2009, Series 7 Episode 1. The business was an aviation renewable energy supply company. They secured investment from James Caan on the show. The company was dissolved in 2016.
The Pitch
Rupert Sweet-Escott walked into the Den in 2009 with an aviation renewable energy supply company. They were asking for £80,000 in exchange for 49% of the business.
The pitch landed well enough in the Den that at least one Dragon decided to back it.
The Deal
A deal was struck on the show. James Caan offered £80,000 for 49%%, and Rupert Sweet-Escott accepted.
It’s worth noting that Dragons’ Den deals agreed on camera often go through further negotiation off-screen. Some complete as shown; others are renegotiated or never finalise at all. The company’s subsequent trading history is the clearest indicator of what actually happened.
What Happened After the Show
Sweet-Escott Aviation Ltd did not survive long-term. The company was dissolved in 2016, some 7 years after the pitch.
This is not an unusual outcome. The majority of businesses that appear on Dragons’ Den, deal or no deal, don’t make it in the long run. The show can provide a platform and capital, but it can’t substitute for a sustainable business model.
Is Sweet-Escott Aviation Ltd Still in Business?
No. Sweet-Escott Aviation Ltd is no longer in business. Based on available records, the company is dissolved (2016).
Related Companies
If you’re curious about other businesses from the same episode, you might also want to look at TrueCall Ltd, Westhawk, U Star Novels, Anti Wrinkle Hat. Each has its own story of what happened after the Den.
