Which retailer did Theo Paphitis acquire in 1995?

Theo Paphitis acquired the stationery retailer Ryman in 1995.

Paphitis bought Ryman after building experience in retail and consumer businesses. Under his ownership, the chain became a prominent UK stationery retailer, selling office supplies, paper products, writing equipment and related goods through high-street shops and online channels.

The acquisition is an important part of Paphitis’s business biography because Ryman helped establish him as a major British retail entrepreneur before his television appearances. He later became known for investments in other consumer-facing companies and joined Dragons’ Den as a Dragon.

Ryman is often confused with WHSmith because both operate in the UK stationery and books market. They are separate businesses. Paperchase and Staples are also distinct retailers, and neither is the company Paphitis acquired in 1995.