Deborah Meaden joined the Dragons' Den panel in 2006 and became known for investments including Craft Gin Club.
Meaden entered the programme during its second series, replacing Rachel Elnaugh as one of the principal investors. She brought experience from family businesses, leisure and retail, and became one of the show's longest-serving Dragons. Her on-screen style is associated with direct questioning about sales, margins and valuation.
Craft Gin Club, founded by husband-and-wife team Jonny and Vicky Roper, is one of the businesses linked with Meaden's Dragons' Den investments. The subscription company sends members gin and related products from independent producers, illustrating the type of consumer brand frequently presented on the programme.
Meaden is sometimes confused with later female Dragons such as Kelly Hoppen and Sara Davies. Those investors joined in different periods, while Meaden's regular tenure began in 2006.