Duncan Bannatyne, the straight-talking millionaire known for his no-nonsense approach on BBC's Dragons' Den, has thrown his gym chain into the centre of a national debate on inclusivity. The business magnate has publicly vowed to remove the non-binary gender option from his company's membership application form, a decision that has swiftly drawn fierce criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
The controversy erupted after a customer enquiry prompted Bannatyne to review the app's sign-up process. In a statement that has since gone viral, the entrepreneur declared, "We are a business that likes to stick to the facts. We will be removing the non-binary title from our application form with immediate effect."
A Clash of Values in the Fitness Industry
This move places Bannatyne's sprawling empire of over 70 health clubs and spas at odds with a growing trend of corporate inclusivity. Many major UK businesses, including banks and retailers, have adopted gender-neutral options to better serve and respect their diverse customer base.
Bannatyne's justification frames the decision as a matter of factual record-keeping rather than one of identity. However, critics argue that erasing the option is a significant step backwards, signalling a lack of recognition and validation for non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals.
Backlash and Public Reaction
The response on social media has been swift and largely condemnatory. Many users have expressed disappointment and anger, accusing the tycoon of discrimination and being out of touch with modern values. Some have even called for a boycott of his gyms, highlighting the potential commercial repercussions of taking a stance on such a socially charged issue.
This incident is not Bannatyne's first foray into public controversy. Since leaving television, he has been an outspoken figure on social media and in the press, often sharing his strong opinions on politics and current affairs. This latest episode, however, strikes a particularly personal chord for many, touching directly on issues of identity and belonging.
As the debate rages online, the business impact for Bannatyne Health Clubs remains to be seen. The decision puts the chain in a unique and potentially isolating position within the competitive UK fitness market, which typically promotes itself as welcoming and accessible to all.
