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Harrogate business owner receives advice from TV dragon

TV 'dragon' Deborah Meaden and the staff at Picture News.

A small Harrogate business owner is one of seven to receive advice from a star of BBC’s Dragons Den.

Business guru Deborah Meaden is part of a new mini-series, ‘Let’s Partner Up for Good’, from NESCAFÉ® by Nestlé Professional to give practical support to SMEs.

And Katie Harrison, Director of Picture News in Harrogate, was one of seven to be chosen from 800 who registered for advice.

Katie will appear in the first episode, which focuses on business growth.

Her firm, Picture News, provides schools with topical news resources to create engaging and exciting lessons.

Katie said:

“Taking part in NESCAFÉ by Nestlé Professional’s Let’s Partner Up for Good campaign was a brilliant experience. 

“Having the opportunity to ask in-depth questions to the incredible Deborah Meaden and the talented team at Nestlé Professional about how our business can grow internationally was truly an entrepreneur’s dream. 

“The advice the experts gave is already being implemented. The idea of focusing on one market and delegating responsibilities internally has already proven to be a success.”

As part of the series, seven small business owners will share their challenges on business growth, sustainability and wellbeing.

Deborah and Nestlé Professional’s business experts will support them in the 3-episode series, which will air between now and December.

When asked about advice she’d give to the small business community, Deborah Meaden said: 

“If you try to enter more than one market at the same time, you’ll encounter more problems and make more mistakes. 

“So, first, I would assess the opportunities and choose one market with the best pathway in terms of growth potential. 

“After you’ve got the experience of dealing with one country – for example learning the sensitivities of that marketplace – you’ll be better prepared to roll out from there. 

“I also think it’s important to find a partner in said country; someone who can help you find your way in the idiosyncrasies of local markets. That’s an incredibly valuable tool for any business.”

Watch the 'Let’s Partner Up for Good' series via YouTube here.

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