Duncan Bannatyne is the investor associated with the business empire behind Bannatyne health clubs.
Bannatyne developed a large leisure and hospitality group that includes health clubs, hotels and spas. The health-club brand became one of the most visible parts of his business portfolio and is named after him. His route into business began with entrepreneurial ventures including an ice-cream business, followed by expansion into care homes and leisure.
He was one of the original Dragons when the British programme launched in 2005. His direct, energetic style made him a memorable member of the early panel, and viewers often associated him with deals involving consumer products and growing companies.
The brand name is a useful clue, but Bannatyne’s work extends beyond gyms. The group’s activities have included hospitality and wellness, while his public profile also includes charity work and television appearances. He is not the same entrepreneur as Peter Jones, whose interests centre more heavily on technology and investment.