Thomas Skinner, a participant on the show Strictly Come Dancing, has come under scrutiny for his business practices. Despite boasting about making “millions” during the pandemic, one of Skinner’s companies, the Fluffy Pillow Company, has failed to repay a £50,000 Covid bounce back loan obtained in 2020. Skinner, the sole director of the company, has not fulfilled the loan repayment obligations.
Skinner claimed that both the Fluffy Pillow Company and another business, Bosh Beds, profited significantly from the pandemic, with the latter reportedly making £130,000 in weekly sales by 2021. These revelations have raised concerns about the credibility of the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, especially following Skinner’s recent admission of infidelity.
In his autobiography, Skinner mentioned the rapid growth of the pillow company after his appearance on The Apprentice, attributing its success to high demand during the pandemic. Despite Skinner’s claims of financial success, there is no evidence of the Fluffy Pillow Company repaying the government loan.
The loan scheme, aimed at aiding Covid-affected small businesses, allowed self-certification for quicker processing. Skinner justified applying for the loan due to financial setbacks caused by the pandemic, even though the company’s social media suggested ongoing operations throughout 2020.
With Companies House issuing notices for liquidation due to outstanding debts, questions remain regarding the closure of the Fluffy Pillow Company. Skinner’s varying statements about the business’s fate and employee numbers have added to the confusion surrounding the situation.
Skinner’s decision to step down as a director of Bosh Beds in 2022 aligns with the broader trend of companies facing financial challenges post-pandemic. As the government introduces a repayment amnesty for Covid loans until December 2025, directors are encouraged to settle outstanding debts without immediate repercussions.