Dragons’ Den Tracker

The Pitch

Vini and Bal Aujla walked into the Den in 2014 with a chilled, fresh indian cook-in sauces. They were asking for £50,000 in exchange for 30% 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. Piers Linney offered £50,000 for 30%, and Vini and Bal Aujla 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

Vini & Bal's Rustic Indian did not survive long-term. The company was dissolved in 2021, 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 Vini & Bal's Rustic Indian Still Available?

No. Rustic Indian Food Ltd is no longer in business. Companies House records show the company has been dissolved.

Related Companies

If you’re curious about other businesses from the same episode, you might also want to look at The Little Coffee Bag Co., Graffiti Artist, Jolly Days Luxury Camping, Slouch Mat. Each has its own story of what happened after the Den.

Watch the Pitch

Videos

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'Vini & Bal's Rustic Indian' Makes History In The Den | Dragons' Den