Duncan Bannatyne founded the Bannatyne Group, the hotel, health-club and spa business that bears his surname and is associated with the British TV show Dragon's Den.
Bannatyne began his business career in ice-cream vans before building companies in care homes, nurseries, health clubs and hotels. The Bannatyne Group became particularly associated with fitness clubs and spas across the United Kingdom, later adding hotel operations.
He joined the original Dragon's Den panel in 2005 and became one of the programme's most recognisable investors. His background combined entrepreneurial growth with a focus on businesses serving consumers directly.
The surname can create an easy mix-up because Bannatyne has owned or invested in several businesses. The relevant point here is that the group itself is named after Duncan Bannatyne and was founded by him, rather than by another Dragon such as Peter Jones or Alan Sugar.