Duncan Bannatyne established the Bannatyne Group before appearing on the British television show Dragon's Den.
The Bannatyne Group developed into a major British health-club, spa and hotel business. Bannatyne entered business through several ventures, including an ice-cream business, and later built a large leisure portfolio. The group bears his surname and remains the clearest corporate link to his entrepreneurial career.
Bannatyne became one of the original Dragons when the UK programme began in 2005. His presentation style was often forceful, and he became particularly associated with examining sales, margins and the practical route to scaling a company.
The Bannatyne Group should not be confused with Virgin Group or other diversified companies owned by celebrity entrepreneurs. Bannatyne's businesses are especially associated with health clubs, spas and hotels rather than airlines, music or telecommunications.