Previous entrepreneurs that have taken investment away from the famously bare tower include Razzamatazz Theatre Schools, which now makes its unique business concept available to investors across the UK through the franchising model.

This years list of fearsome dragons is comprised of beady-eyed stalwarts; Duncan Banatyne, Deborah Meaden and the prolific Peter Jones. As well as newer successors, Kelly Hoppen, who is a world-renowned designer, and Internet millionaire Piers Linney, who made his fortune through the cloud hosting revolution.

With the scene set for another series of gruelling pitches and light bulb moments, it could be just a matter of time before more Dragon-backed franchise opportunities become readily available. Watch this space.

Sunday August 11th 2013

8.00pm BBC 2

Published: 9 August 2013

Back to news