Theo Paphitis was the original Dragon's Den investor known for the retail chain Ryman.
Paphitis is a Greek-Cypriot British businessman who became prominent through retail and business investment. Ryman, the stationery retailer, is one of the companies most closely associated with his business career and public profile.
He appeared as one of the original investors when the British series launched. Alongside other early dragons, he assessed entrepreneurs' proposals by examining margins, competition, intellectual property, management ability and the amount of equity offered.
The question can be confusing because several dragons were associated with major businesses. Peter Jones is linked with technology and communications ventures, Duncan Bannatyne with health clubs and other enterprises, and Doug Richard with technology entrepreneurship. Ryman is the retail association most specifically connected with Theo Paphitis.