Dragon's Den investor Alan Sugar founded the technology company Amstrad in 1968.
The name Amstrad was derived from Alan Michael Sugar Trading. Sugar began the company as an import-export business, and it later became known for affordable consumer electronics, including hi-fi equipment, satellite television products and personal computers.
Amstrad's best-known computer products included the CPC range, launched in the 1980s, and the PCW word processor. The company also produced the Sinclair ZX Spectrum under licence after acquiring the Sinclair computer business in 1986. These products made Amstrad an important name in Britain's home-computer market.
Alan Sugar later became the chairman and lead Dragon on the BBC series. Amstrad should not be confused with Sinclair Research, Acorn Computers or Commodore, all separate technology companies associated with British or home-computer history.