Rochdale Company is a hit on Dragon’s Den

Neil Parkinson, (Thomas Hardie Commercials), Paul Merker, Jerry Mantalvanos and Paul Rowen MP.

A Rochdale-based company, aiming to be the most effective and environmentally friendly transport company in the UK have proved a huge hit on BBC’s Dragon’s Den.  The company has received £100,000 investment from venture capitalists Theo Paphitis and Deborah Meaden.  The ‘Dragons’ were competing with each other to support the company on last night’s (Monday 3 December) programme.

Co-founders Jerry Mantalvanos and Paul Merker were delighted with the interest shown.  Mr Mantalvanos said: “After we established that Volvo Trucks would supply vehicles at 100% bio-diesel we needed investment.  It was at that time that we decided to apply to Dragon’s Den.”

Paul Merker added: “The interest from the panel was very pleasing and we are now extremely proud to have two of the Dragons, Deborah Meaden and Theo Paphitis, on board with us.  We believe that we will change the face of bulk transport.”

The pair have been trading since June this year and have already taken delivery of three Volvo FH 480 Euro 5’s which have been adapted to operate 100% bio-diesel.  The equipment required to ensure bio-diesel can be used with standard fuel trucks was specially adapted by Thomas Hardie Commercials from Wigan.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen said: “I am very proud that a Rochdale-based company are doing so well.  They were excellent on the programme and the fact that four of the investors were prepared to back them says it all.  This is a company who I am sure will bring jobs and prosperity to our town.  The fact that their environmental efforts have been heavily featured on national TV is a great source of pride.  I have no doubt that Paul and Jerry will lead the way in cleaning up haulage over the next few years.  Yet again, Rochdale is leading the way.”