Retailers are always on the lookout for the next big thing and in this series the buying teams of three high street giants are prepared to take an enormous gamble by asking members of the public to supply them with the next bestselling product. This is a chance of a lifetime for unknown designers and producers to pitch directly to the retail industry's power-brokers and have the opportunity to get their product stocked in prestigious shops. Over six months, retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis will be following both buyers and suppliers as they experience the highs and guaranteed lows of bringing a product to market - from initial pitch to shop shelf - and whilst many won't make the grade, for a lucky few it will be a life-changing experience.
In episode one, an iconic department store opens its doors to the public with a unique open day. From 6am, over 600 people queue around the block for the opportunity to pitch their product to the buying team led by Buying Director Ed Burstell. But with just three minutes to pitch their wares, only a handful will be selected to take their products further. Amongst the hopeful fledgling suppliers are former carpenter Tom Hopkins-Gibson, who has travelled down from Scotland with his porcelain and wood bowls, professor of architecture Richard Weston, who dazzles the buyers with his unique silk scarves, and glass blower Charlotte Sale.
Meanwhile, at the headquarters of a a leading pharmacy chain, the buying team get ready for their open day, sifting through hundreds of applications to short-list just ten potential suppliers.
