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Peter Jones, one of the UK's leading entrepreneurs and star of the hit BBC2 television series 'Dragon's Den,' has finally met his match in the fierce and cut-throat world of business: step forward 12-year-old Charlie Crowther.

But this wasn't a battle in the boardroom. This was a battle of the board game - 'Big Business,' which was unveiled for the first time today at a special launch at London's world-famous toy store Hamleys, in Regent Street.

Charlie from Chiswick, London, was one of handful of youngsters who got to play the game against its celebrity namesake and creator in a contest to mark the launch of the limited edition GBP19.99 game. And even Peter had to admit he learnt some new moves.

The other young challengers who played against the multi-millionaire entrepreneur were: Maya Butler and Laura Eastaff, both aged 12, from Guildford, Surrey; Scott Claridge (12), from High Wycombe, Bucks; and Mitch Brant (12), from Chiswick, London.

"It may be my game but Charlie definitely showed me who's the boss on this occasion, which I hope says a lot about the next generation of entrepreneurs," said Peter.

'Peter Jones' Big Business' is a family board game for two or more players aged eight and up. Over six rounds encompassing the key areas of setting up and running a business, players are randomly issued with a business, such as 'Best Knickers' (a retailer of high class undies) and 'Head Office (a chain of hairdressers).

The object of the game is to beat other players in a race to collect the right kind of staff and make the most money, during rounds including 'Pitch to Peter,' 'Number Cruncher' and 'Spot the Bull'. At different times in the game you can 'Hire, Fire or Trade' employees, and choose to negotiate with Peter over certain decisions.

Added Peter: "We have tried hard to unravel the mysteries of big business and make it fun for all the family. If it encourages one or two new entrepreneurs to emerge in years to come that will be how I personally will judge its success."

As well as Hamleys, the game will also be available from Argos, Asda, Amazon and John Lewis.

 

October 24, 2007