Which business did Duncan Bannatyne launch in 1997 before becoming a Dragon?

Duncan Bannatyne launched Bannatyne Fitness in 1997 before becoming a Dragon.

Bannatyne built a diversified business empire after earlier ventures in ice cream, care homes and property. His fitness business began in 1997 and later expanded into a national chain of health clubs and spas. The group became one of the most recognisable parts of his commercial portfolio.

He joined the Dragon's Den panel in the first series in 2005. On the programme, his investment interests often reflected his experience in consumer services, leisure and growing businesses. His direct and sometimes sceptical questioning became a familiar part of the show's early years.

The business is also associated with the broader Bannatyne Group, which has operated health clubs, hotels and spas. Those labels should not be treated as interchangeable: the specific venture launched in 1997 was Bannatyne Fitness.