Sara Davies is a name that has become synonymous with entrepreneurship, innovation, and television fame. Best known for her role as a Dragon on the BBC One hit show Dragons’ Den, Davies made a significant mark as one of the youngest-ever investors on the show, joining at just 35 years old in 2019. As a venture capitalist, she brings a wealth of experience from her own entrepreneurial journey, having built one of the UK’s most successful craft businesses, Crafter’s Companion. Her keen business acumen and passion for supporting small businesses have made her a respected figure in the investment world.
In addition to her role as a Dragon, Davies’ impact extends far beyond the boardroom. In 2016, she was awarded an MBE for her services to the economy, acknowledging her contributions to the business world and her role in creating jobs and opportunities. Her journey from a university student with a simple idea to becoming a multi-millionaire entrepreneur and TV star has been inspiring for many. Throughout her career, Sara has proven that with vision, determination, and hard work, it’s possible to turn passion into a lasting legacy.
Early Life and Entrepreneurial Beginnings
Sara Davies was born in County Durham, England, in 1984. Growing up in a working-class family, she was instilled with a strong sense of determination and a drive to succeed. Her entrepreneurial spirit began to take shape during her time at the University of York, where she studied business. It was during her university years that Sara spotted an opportunity that would change the course of her life. While other students were focused on their studies, she began thinking about how she could turn her passion for crafting into a business.
Sara founded Crafter’s Companion, a company that would revolutionize the world of card-making. The idea came to her when she realized there was a gap in the market for an envelope-making tool, something that wasn’t widely available to crafters at the time. With little more than a passion for crafting and a vision for her business, Sara set out to create the perfect tool for card makers. What started as a small operation in her dorm room quickly grew into a thriving business, as Crafter’s Companion gained traction and recognition in the crafting community.
Sara’s entrepreneurial journey was not without challenges, but her tenacity and ability to identify untapped market needs helped her build one of the most successful craft businesses in the UK. Over the years, Crafter’s Companion expanded its product range, reaching crafters not just in the UK, but also across Europe and the United States. This early success set the stage for her future ventures and solidified Sara Davies as a formidable businesswoman, well on her way to becoming a household name.
Her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the opportunities that can arise from identifying a niche market, even while still in university. What began as a small idea in a student bedroom blossomed into a business empire that would define Sara’s career and make her one of the most recognized faces in British business today.
Crafter’s Companion: The Birth of a Crafting Empire
Crafter’s Companion was born from a simple observation that led to a groundbreaking business idea. While still a student at the University of York, Sara Davies noticed a significant gap in the crafting market: card makers struggled to find the right tools for creating envelopes. Sara’s entrepreneurial instincts kicked in, and she set out to design and create an envelope-making tool that would revolutionize the crafting process. With no prior experience in manufacturing, Sara relied on her creativity and determination to bring her vision to life. The result was a tool that solved a common problem for crafters, and Crafter’s Companion was born.
The business quickly gained momentum, thanks to its focus on providing high-quality, innovative crafting tools and supplies. Over time, Crafter’s Companion expanded its product range, catering to various crafting needs beyond just envelope-making, including die-cutting, stamping, and card-making tools. This expansion was well-received by crafters, and Sara’s company began to grow rapidly. Crafter’s Companion quickly became one of the UK’s leading brands in the crafting industry, offering a wide array of products that appealed to both hobbyists and professionals alike.
As the company grew, so did its reach. What started as a small, UK-based business soon expanded internationally. Through its website, Crafter’s Companion began selling to customers across Europe and the United States, bringing its innovative products to a global audience. At its peak, the company boasted a turnover of over £34 million per year, cementing its position as a market leader in the crafting industry.
Navigating the Challenges: The Return to Crafter’s Companion
The pandemic was a challenging time for Crafter’s Companion. Like many other businesses, it was forced to adapt quickly to the changing economic environment. Sara Davies and her husband Simon, who co-founded the company with her, stepped back from the day-to-day operations as they sought new ways to navigate the difficult period. In an attempt to stabilize the company, Growth Partners, a private equity firm, stepped in with a multi-million-pound investment. This deal marked a turning point for Crafter’s Companion, as it provided the capital needed to implement strategic changes and help the business weather the storm.
Despite the significant investment, the company’s struggle continued as it dealt with the aftermath of the pandemic. Sara Davies was honest about the company’s troubles, acknowledging that the expansion strategy pursued during a time of economic uncertainty had not been successful. She also highlighted how many businesses in the retail and consumer sectors were facing similar struggles due to the broader economic downturn.
Sara’s commitment to Crafter’s Companion was unwavering, and in 2023, she decided to return to the company to help steer it back on track. With the backing of a new financial structure, Sara and her team worked tirelessly to preserve as many jobs as possible, particularly in the North East of England, where the company had its roots. Her return marked a renewed sense of hope for the business and its employees, as Sara was determined to protect the company’s future and ensure its continued success.
Sara’s leadership during this difficult period was instrumental in stabilizing the business. She worked closely with the new management team to implement a revised strategy that focused on rebuilding Crafter’s Companion’s reputation and reconnecting with its customer base. Her efforts were aimed not only at ensuring the company’s survival but also at restoring its position as a leading force in the crafting world. Through strategic decisions, careful planning, and a commitment to its loyal customers, Crafter’s Companion was able to navigate the challenges and move forward toward a brighter future.
Today, Crafter’s Companion is back on its feet, and Sara Davies remains at the heart of its growth, helping to drive the company’s strategy and ensuring that its innovative spirit continues to thrive. Her ability to overcome the challenges of the pandemic and lead the company through uncertain times is a testament to her resilience, vision, and commitment to her business.
Dragons’ Den: Investment Success and Business Acumen
Sara Davies’ entry into Dragons’ Den in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in her career. When she joined the BBC One show, she was not only the youngest-ever Dragon at the time, but also one of the most anticipated new investors. Her journey into the world of venture capital was an exciting one, as her entrepreneurial success and hands-on experience in growing Crafter’s Companion made her an invaluable addition to the show’s panel of investors. Sara brought with her a unique perspective, having built a multi-million-pound business from scratch and knowing exactly what it takes to thrive in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.
Throughout her time on Dragons’ Den, Sara has become known for her sharp business sense and willingness to invest in businesses with potential. She has backed a wide variety of companies, particularly those with strong, innovative ideas or products that resonate with consumers. With over £2.3 million invested in various businesses, Sara’s portfolio of investments showcases her keen ability to identify opportunities that align with her values and expertise.
Notable investments include Psychic Sisters, a wellness brand offering ‘Reiki-energised’ crystals and aura mists. Sara was particularly drawn to the brand’s unique niche and its potential to tap into the growing wellness market. She invested £25,000 for a 5% stake in the company, helping it scale and gain more exposure. Another standout investment is Scoff Paper, a Chorley-based company that produces edible greeting cards for pets. Recognizing the creative flair and marketability of this quirky product, Sara invested £50,000 for a 25% stake. These investments, among others, have proven to be successful, with the businesses thriving under Sara’s guidance and support.
Sara’s investment strategy in Dragons’ Den is grounded in her belief that successful businesses are built on passion, innovation, and a clear vision for the future. She has made it a point to back companies that have a personal touch and that cater to unique consumer needs. With her wealth of experience and sharp instincts, Sara has proven time and again that she is a shrewd investor with a knack for spotting potential in the most unexpected places.
Other Ventures and Roles Beyond Dragons’ Den
Beyond her role as a Dragon, Sara Davies has taken on a variety of other influential roles, solidifying her reputation as a leader and advocate for young entrepreneurs. One of her most notable recent ventures is her appointment as the Chief Inspiration Officer for Avon UK in July 2024. In this role, Sara is focused on inspiring and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, particularly women, to follow their passions and pursue business ventures of their own. Her appointment to this leadership position speaks to her influence in the business world, as she continues to mentor and guide others on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Sara is also a passionate advocate for young female entrepreneurs, and she has used her platform to encourage women to step into leadership roles and take charge of their business aspirations. Her own journey from a university student with a simple idea to a multi-million-pound entrepreneur is a source of inspiration for many. She regularly speaks at events and engages in community initiatives to show young women the vast opportunities available in the world of business.
Sara has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship in her local community and beyond. She is committed to making a difference by using her success to provide opportunities for others, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Whether through mentoring, public speaking, or offering investment advice, Sara continues to inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs, proving that hard work, creativity, and passion can lead to great things.
Sara’s influence extends far beyond Dragons’ Den and her craft business. She has become a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, a champion for women in business, and a tireless advocate for community engagement. Her commitment to shaping the future of entrepreneurship, particularly for women, positions her as not just a successful businesswoman, but also a key figure in driving positive change in the business world.
Sara Davies’ Net Worth and Financial Success
Sara Davies’ estimated net worth stands at an impressive £37 million, a testament to her multifaceted career as a businesswoman, investor, and media personality. Her wealth has been built through a combination of her entrepreneurial ventures, investments on Dragons’ Den, and a series of influential roles across the business and media sectors.
The core of Sara’s fortune stems from her founding of Crafter’s Companion, a company she started from her university bedroom. What began as a small business focused on crafting tools has now grown into one of the UK’s largest craft companies, with an annual turnover exceeding £34 million at its peak. This business alone has generated substantial financial success for Sara, but her entrepreneurial instincts did not stop there. She diversified her income streams by investing in various businesses on Dragons’ Den, where her £2.3 million in investments have undoubtedly paid off, both financially and in terms of influence.
Sara’s wealth also comes from her media career. As a beloved Dragon on Dragons’ Den, she has gained not only a steady income from her television appearances but also significant public recognition. Her role as a media personality has helped boost her profile and opened doors for partnerships, endorsements, and other lucrative business opportunities. Her work as Chief Inspiration Officer for Avon UK and her influence on young entrepreneurs further contribute to her financial success by solidifying her position as a key figure in the business world.
Sara’s financial success is a reflection of her ability to identify opportunities, take calculated risks, and build long-term, sustainable businesses. From Crafter’s Companion to her ventures in Dragons’ Den and her role in shaping future entrepreneurs, Sara’s wealth is the result of hard work, strategic investments, and a commitment to both personal growth and community impact.
Read more: How Steven Bartlett Built a £70 Million Empire: Net Worth and Impact in 2025
Conclusion
Sara Davies’ rise from a university student with an entrepreneurial idea to one of the most successful businesswomen in the UK is truly inspiring. Her journey reflects not only her passion for business but also her ability to adapt and thrive in challenging times. From founding Crafter’s Companion to her investments on Dragons’ Den and her influential role at Avon UK, Sara’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and leadership.
With an estimated net worth of £37 million, Sara has built a financial empire through a combination of smart investments, her own entrepreneurial ventures, and her role as a media personality. However, her success is not just measured in financial terms. Sara’s impact on the business world, especially in terms of inspiring and empowering young entrepreneurs, is equally significant. She has proven that with determination, creativity, and a strong business acumen, it’s possible to achieve remarkable success and make a lasting impact in the world of business.
Sara Davies continues to inspire countless entrepreneurs, particularly women, to pursue their dreams and achieve success in their own right. Her legacy is not just one of wealth, but of empowering others to find their own entrepreneurial paths and make their mark on the world.
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