83. Junior’s Pantry

Founder: Kate Finch
Founded: March 2011 (launched March 2012)
Website: www.juniorspantry.co.uk

It may be just three months old, but Junior’s Pantry is no baby brand. On the contrary, it fills the gap where microwave meals for babies end, and adult-size ready meals for grown-ups begin. Former City director (and Cordon Bleu-trained chef) Finch’s one-pot meals save time in the schedule of school-age children, who have to squeeze in swimming lessons, homework and dinner, all before an early bedtime.

They also make it easy for single dads and grandparents to provide a simple, healthy meal when they assist with childcare. Furthermore, each meal is designed to introduce young diners to new flavours (chicken and prawn paella is a bestseller). Launching straight onto Ocado, Junior’s Pantry has all the hallmarks of a megabrand.