Which original Dragon co-founded Phones 4u before appearing on Dragon's Den?

John Caudwell co-founded Phones 4u before appearing as an original Dragon on Dragon's Den.

Caudwell built his fortune in mobile-phone retail and became associated with Phones 4u, a major British retailer and distributor of mobile phones. That background made him a particularly relevant investor for pitches involving telecommunications, consumer electronics and high-volume retail.

He was part of the original Dragon lineup when the British series began. His business career therefore predates the television role; the programme showcased established entrepreneurs rather than creating their commercial reputations from nothing.

John Caudwell is often confused with Peter Jones, another Dragon strongly associated with mobile-phone businesses and technology. Both had experience in that sector, but Caudwell is the original Dragon linked to co-founding Phones 4u.