British entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne, known for his role on BBC's Dragons’ Den, recently visited Morocco with his wife Nigora to support the medical charity Operation Smile. This organization helps children born with cleft lips and palates by offering free surgeries. Bannatyne, a longtime ambassador for the charity, spent time with children receiving treatment and met with doctors involved in the work. He praised the efforts of an all-female medical team involved in the charity’s “Women in Medicine” program. The visit was both emotional and inspiring, as he witnessed firsthand how the surgeries change lives by giving children the ability to smile, eat, and speak properly.
A Decade of Support and Fundraising for Operation Smile
Duncan Bannatyne has supported Operation Smile since 2013. Over the years, he has joined missions in countries like Mexico, the Philippines, Ghana, and now Morocco. His health club chain, the Bannatyne Group, has raised over £45,000 for the cause through different events. He believes strongly in giving back, especially to children who don’t have access to basic medical care. Bannatyne shared that seeing the transformations in these young patients motivates him to stay involved. Through social media and personal visits, he continues to raise awareness for the charity and encourage others to donate or get involved.
Bannatyne Group Sees Strong Financial Growth in 2024
Aside from his charity work, Bannatyne’s business is also thriving. In 2024, the Bannatyne Group—which includes gyms, spas, and hotels across the UK—reported record earnings. The company’s total revenue hit £149.6 million, up from £138.9 million the year before. Profits also jumped to £14.4 million. Bannatyne said he’s proud of his team for helping the company grow and improve services, especially after the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With nearly 70 locations, Bannatyne Group remains the largest independent health club chain in the UK.
Duncan Bannatyne Calls for Safer Spaces for Women in Gyms
In early 2025, Duncan made headlines when he publicly supported a UK court ruling that defined “woman” as a biological female in certain legal settings. Following this, he urged gyms, including his own, to maintain separate changing areas for women. He said it’s important for female members to feel safe and respected in fitness environments. His comments sparked both support and criticism, but many applauded his focus on creating safe spaces for everyone in gyms. Bannatyne believes businesses have a responsibility to listen to their members and take action when needed.
Celebrating His 76th Birthday in Style
In February 2025, Duncan Bannatyne celebrated his 76th birthday with a grand party at a popular nightclub in Miami called KIKI On The River. He was joined by his wife and friends for a night of dancing and fun. The celebration featured a custom birthday cake and decorations that read, “The man, the myth, the legend.” Photos from the event showed Bannatyne and his wife enjoying the night, proving that age is just a number. Despite his busy schedule, he still makes time to celebrate and enjoy life.
Image Source: Daily Record
