Being a DragonInvestment adviceLogin HereSign up here to access my newsletter
|
My take on the other dragons
publication date: Jan 27, 2008
It is a privilege to join the Dragons' Den and be among the UK's top entrepreneurial talent. Here I give my views on what sets the Dragons apart and helps keep them at the top of their game. Deborah Meaden built up her family’s holiday park business after making her start in glass and ceramics. Concedes that she can, at times, be a little too blunt. “A professional individual who does not suffer fools and definitely knows her stuff. She has an amazing attention to detail and can get to the core issue of an idea in an extremely short amount of time”. Peter Jones founded a tennis academy when he was seventeen. Rebounded from a failed computer business to become one of Britain’s most successful young businessmen. His pet hates include dishonesty, exaggeration and waffle. “Peter has a great sense of humour and is very good to work with. He has an incredible ability to think outside the box and see something that everybody else might have missed”.
Theo Paphitis is a specialist in turning around struggling companies. Believes there are three reasons to be in business: to make money, to have fun… and to make money.
“A great character. I have a lot of respect for Theo – he’s in the toughest end of the market because turning companies around requires tremendous ability and a deep understanding of how business works”.
Duncan Bannatyne began his career with an ice cream van before establishing the Bannatyne’s branded chain of health clubs, bars, casinos and hotels. The richest man in Darlington, apparently. “A family man with a great business. He’s had an amazing life, the ultimate rags-to-riches story. I admire Duncan for his achievements and his passion for the Bannatyne brand”. |
.jpg)