John Lewis has named entrepreneur Luke Johnson and Confused.com founder Sara Murray among its panel of mentors.
The pair will advise and judge entrants to its technology start-up incubator, JLab.
John Lewis announced earlier this year that it was launching JLab in a bid to tap into innovative ideas from smaller technology companies and start-ups.
The team of mentors, headed up by technology entrepreneur Stuart Marks, include Graham Clempson, managing partner of Quartic Capital, Dr Stephanie Hussels, senior lecturer in entrepreneurship at Cranfield University, entrepreneur and former head of product at Hailo George Berkowski and Shaa Wasmund, technology entrepreneur and founder of Smarta.
The panel will also be joined by a team of John Lewis directors, such as marketing director Craig Inglis, who will provide further expertise.
The mentors will offer business advice and encouragement to the start-ups in the 12-week final stage of JLab.
Paul Coby, IT director at John Lewis, said: “The mentors represent some of the UK’s finest entrepreneurial minds, and we’re delighted to welcome them toJLab. Working alongside John Lewis, they’ll advise each JLab finalist during the development process, helping to tune them to the needs of retailers and providing invaluable insight into making their ideas a success.”
Entry to JLab is open until April 17.
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