Which British Dragon's Den investor founded the Bannatyne Group health-club business?

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Duncan Bannatyne founded the Bannatyne Group health-club business.

Bannatyne built a business empire that included health clubs, hotels, and spas. The Bannatyne Group became particularly associated with premium health and fitness facilities across the United Kingdom, carrying his surname as its brand.

He was one of the original dragons when the British version of Dragon's Den launched in 2005. On the programme, he became known for direct questions about profitability, valuation, and the practical work required to operate a growing business.

Bannatyne left the Dragon's Den panel in 2014. His departure is sometimes overlooked because he remained a recognisable public business figure, but his time as a dragon covered the programme's early years and several major changes to the investor line-up.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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