A New Pitch from the North
Lancashire-based Northern Pasta Co. is set to appear on the long-running BBC business programme Dragons’ Den on September 17, 2026. Founders Imogen Royall and Matt Kenyon are seeking investment to scale their operations, specifically targeting the development of a new production facility and the creation of additional jobs in the North of England.
The company, which produces pasta using regeneratively grown British spelt and traditional slow bronze extrusion methods, has positioned its mission around environmental sustainability and soil health. For the husband-and-wife team, the appearance on the show represents a critical milestone in their brand’s growth trajectory.
The Broader Context of the Den
The episode is part of series 23, which features a panel including regulars Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman, Deborah Meaden, and Steven Bartlett, alongside guest judge Jenna Meek. The programme, which has been a staple of British television since 2005, maintains deep ties to Northern England, having filmed at various locations including MediaCity in Salford.
Northern Pasta Co. joins a slate of emerging businesses featured in the current series, including Yes Friends, an ethical clothing brand, and ReVibed Drinks, a Birmingham-based producer of superfood-infused beverages. These appearances highlight a recurring theme in the show’s recent direction: a focus on sustainable, mission-driven startups that aim to balance profitability with ethical production standards.
Investment Stakes
The founders of Northern Pasta Co. are looking to leverage the platform to secure capital that will facilitate their next stage of development. The stakes for such businesses are high; beyond the immediate cash injection, a partnership with a Dragon offers mentorship and access to distribution networks that can significantly accelerate market penetration. As the show continues to emphasize the personal journeys of founders—often highlighting the emotional weight behind their business decisions—the interaction between entrepreneurs and investors like Steven Bartlett becomes a focal point for viewers interested in the intersection of venture capital and social purpose.