Ryman is the stationery retailer associated with Dragons' Den investor Theo Paphitis.
Paphitis acquired Ryman, a British stationery and office-supplies chain, in 1995. The business became a central part of his retail portfolio and helped make him a familiar name in British entrepreneurship. Ryman operates stores selling stationery, office products, printing services and related goods.
Theo Paphitis joined the original Dragons' Den panel in 2005. His retail experience shaped the kinds of pitches that interested him, particularly businesses involving consumer products, distribution and high-street sales. He was often recognised on the programme for asking entrepreneurs how their products would reach customers and make money.
Ryman is sometimes confused with other office-supply chains because the British high street has included several stationery brands. WHSmith, Paperchase and Staples were separate businesses. The connection asked about here is specifically Paphitis's ownership and leadership of Ryman, not a claim that he founded every company in the stationery sector.