Britain’s small business owners would favour Duncan Bannatyne over the other dragons in BBC2’s show Dragons’ Den as a mentor for their business ideas, new research suggests.
Bannatyne, who also owns a chain of health clubs, was chosen by 24% of business owners in a poll by Abbey Business. He was followed by telecoms tycoon, Peter Jones, who received 17% of the vote.
However, it seems the UK’s small business owners have a strong independent streak, as the poll also revealed nearly half would prefer to go it alone, and reject the advice and investment of the dragons if it were offered.
Commenting on his popularity, Bannatyne said he was proud to have topped the poll but all the dragons were good mentors.
He added: “Mentoring is very important for entrepreneurs taking their first steps in business as there is a wealth of advice and support that can make a vital difference to the success of a business.”
He and Jones are by far the most popular dragons according to the poll. Australian businessman Richard Farleigh received only 5% of the vote. Former dragon Rachel Elnaugh claimed 3%, but Theo Paphitis and Deborah Meadon could only muster 2% each.
Ian Wilson, managing director of Abbey Business, said: “The Dragons’ Den is a great way of supporting entrepreneurs.”
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2007
