AFTER successfully snaring a pair of dragons on the BBC’s hit TV show Dragons’ Den, brothers Christian and Ross Laing have announced exciting times ahead with further expansion of their Warrington-based Stand Out Socks business.
Appearing on the show with Christian’s long-time fiancée Natalie Dixon, the team accepted an offer from sock fan Peter Jones, CBE, one of Britain’s leading and best-known entrepreneurs along with Steven Bartlett, who became the youngest ever Dragon at just 28 years old.
Following an investment of £30,000 to help take the Stockton Heath-based business to the next level, the company has announced “Exciting times” with the newest members of our team, Jodie and Mark, who are now officially part of our incredible crew in paid roles.
Christian, who launched Stand Out Socks to help his brother Ross find meaningful paid employment, said: “This marks a significant stride towards our mission of creating a more inclusive world, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have Jodie and Mark on board. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing more about these fantastic individuals, their stories, and the unique perspectives they bring to Stand Out Socks.
“The inception of these new roles has been catalyzed by the overwhelming response garnered after our appearance on Dragons’ Den. In a world overshadowed by recent negativity about the show, we are elated to shine a spotlight on a profoundly positive story.
“Our experience with the Dragons’ Den platform has been nothing short of transformative for our company, we are eager to highlight the remarkable impact this show has had on our journey.
“A heartfelt shoutout to our incredible investors Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones and their amazing teams who believe in us and support our vision. Your faith in Stand Out Socks has been instrumental in helping us reach this new exciting chapter, and we are immensely proud of our partnership.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our friends at Down Syndrome Cheshire for their invaluable assistance in the successful placement of our new staff members.
“If any businesses in the Cheshire area are even just curious about how individuals with Down Syndrome can make a positive impact on their company, we encourage you to reach out to Lucy McLaren.”
Christian added: “For those situated in other areas of the UK, we recommend connecting with the Down’s Syndrome Association or your local Down Syndrome group for information tailored to your region.
“Embracing diversity in the workplace will not only enrich your teams but also contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive society.
“Thank you, everyone, for being a part of our journey and for making Stand Out Socks a hub of innovation, diversity, and positivity. Stay tuned as we embark on this next chapter together, celebrating the strength of unity and the belief that we can make a real impact.”
Christian launched the Stand Out Socks business with his brother Ross in 2021 on National Down Syndrome Day. The business first expanded last October when they welcomed two new colleagues with Down Syndrome to the business.
Their business was founded on the principles of quality and inclusivity, Stand Out Socks understands that socks are more than just fashion accessories; they serve as catalysts to open discussions on disability inclusion and raise Down Syndrome awareness.
