Which Dragon's Den investor acquired the British retailer Robert Dyas in 2012?

Theo Paphitis acquired the British retailer Robert Dyas in 2012.

Robert Dyas is a British retail chain selling hardware, homeware, DIY products and related household goods. Paphitis bought the business in 2012, adding it to the retail interests that made him one of the best-known businesspeople associated with Dragon's Den.

The acquisition fits Paphitis's established commercial background. He had already built and operated retail businesses, including Ryman, and his Dragon's Den appearances often reflected his knowledge of shops, consumer products and high-street trading. Robert Dyas and Ryman serve different retail purposes, so they should not be treated as alternate names for the same company.

This detail is distinct from a television investment made by Paphitis. Buying Robert Dyas was a real-world business acquisition outside the den. The date is also important: the transaction took place in 2012, during the period when Paphitis was already a familiar member of the programme's investor community.