Securing a coveted seat on the BBC's Dragons' Den represents a monumental achievement in the business world. The iconic series has featured legendary investors like Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman, Steven Bartlett, and Gary Neville, who have collectively poured thousands of pounds into innovative startups. Yet, one former Dragon, Sara Davies, whose fortune is estimated at a staggering £37 million, has made headlines for her surprisingly frugal travel habits.
Budget Flights Over Private Jets
In a candid interview with Woman And Home for their June cover issue, the 41-year-old entrepreneur disclosed that she opts for Ryanair flights despite her immense wealth. Davies recounted an amusing airport encounter where someone recognized her but doubted her identity, quipping, "It's not. There's only Ryanair flights leaving. She's probably got a private jet."
At the time, she was traveling to Spain with her family and could easily have afforded a private jet. However, Davies emphasized her commitment to parenting principles, stating, "I don't want my kids thinking we can fly that way when the Benidorm bus works just fine." She elaborated on her desire to instill strong values in her children, reflecting on her own upbringing.
Instilling Work Ethic in Children
Davies shared how her mother had her working in the family shop from age five, performing tasks like polishing and hoovering. To mirror this, she has her sons assist in her sister's business during holidays, tidying wallpaper samples to earn their pocket money. "They work hard for their pocket money," she noted, highlighting her focus on teaching responsibility and diligence.
Net Worth and Dragons' Den Exit
Earlier this year, Davies expressed frustration to Metro about being frequently defined by her net worth. She revealed, "It really used to upset me that when I used to Google myself, just to see what people are looking for. It was always 'Sara Davies net-worth.'"
Regarding her departure from Dragons' Den in 2023 after joining in 2019, Davies clarified it was due to the overwhelming commitment. She explained to producers, "I can't commit to this season," citing the potential of taking on a dozen new businesses as too demanding. Despite this, she expressed a desire to return someday, saying, "I'd love to say that someday I'll be able to do some more Dragons' Den again, because I absolutely love it and it's who I am."
Other Dragons' Den Success Stories
Davies' revelation comes amid other notable tales from the show. For instance, Levi Roots, who secured a £50,000 investment in 2007 for his Reggae Reggae sauce, now boasts a reported net worth of £30 million. However, he has spoken of a "deep regret" over the closure of one of his London restaurants, showing that even success comes with challenges.
Additionally, a 26-year-old entrepreneur rejected on Dragons' Den is projected to make £10 million by 2028, underscoring the show's impact beyond the panel. These stories highlight the diverse journeys and lessons from the business world, with Davies' choice to fly Ryanair serving as a poignant reminder of the values that underpin true success.
