Entrepreneurs deliver a boost to mental health

This year has seen the launch of the Peter Jones Foundation Tycoon Enterprise Competition at King’s and a group of six Lower Sixth pupils have embraced the challenge, working independently over the last few weeks to develop their business idea and turn it into reality. 

Recognising the impact that the pandemic has had on so many people’s wellbeing, the girls wanted to give people an opportunity to connect with loved ones by sending them a much-needed pick-me-up.

That’s how they came up with the idea of The Gift Den, a business that produces unique Mental Health Gift Boxes that fit through a letter box. Their online shop also sells packs of specially designed positivity prints, which cost just £1.50 and are guaranteed to bring a smile to any recipient’s face.

The girls have been supported by Business teachers and a professional mentor, and they also received advice on social media marketing from a local expert. They submitted a strong business plan submission which enabled them to acquire a loan of £250 to launch their business. 

Business teacher Clare Rule has been particularly impressed with the team’s commitment to creating an ethical business: “As well as donating 10% of their profits to the Mind Charity, the girls were also very keen that 100% of their packaging was recyclable or reusable, even down to the biodegradable film they use to protect their prints. I am really proud that they have achieved this.”

The Gift Den has been trading online for less than a week and has already sold 20 boxes. If you would like to purchase a box or a pack of positivity prints, all sales made before Friday, June 11 will be included in the enterprise challenge figures. 

Go to thegiftden.org to make your purchase and bring a smile to the face of someone you care about.