Sealed, Single-Serving Wine a Hit in UK

(CANVAS STAFF REPORTS) - A once-ridiculed idea of single-serve cups of wine may now make its creator a rich man.

A panel of experts on BBC's business-related reality show " Dragon's Den " originally dismissed James Nash's idea of a single-serve plastic glass of French wine with a tear-off lid. They refused to put a 25 percent stake of 250,000 pounds in his business.

"People don't want to buy wine in plastic glasses like that with a seal on top," the Daily Mail reported that expert Duncan Bannatyne said on the show. "For that reason, I'm out."

Consumerist.com said the sealed, single serving cup marketed as "Le Froglet" is now being sold by British retail chain Marks & Spencer and is becoming a hit.

A company representative for M&S said the following to the Consumerist:

"We think that they are proving popular with people who want to perhaps enjoy the summer with a glass of wine in the park as part of an impromptu picnic – either after work or for a relaxing lunch.

"They are also popular with commuters who want to enjoy a drink on the train home from work to wind down. We have found that they are very popular in locations popular with tourists."

According to Consumerist.com, the brand is being served in Shiraz, Rose and Chardonnay. Each 187 ml glass sells for about $3.33. The glass equals about a quarter of a bottle of wine.

BBC " Dragon's Den " recapped the show, saying a few of the experts were concerned about the patent application such as Nash starting production before submitting it.

Nash told the Daily Mail that he was disheartened to be dismissed by the Dragons but knew he "had a great concept which would work in outdoor events, BBQ, picnics and concerts."