WMN Fast Growth 75_October 2016 by DCMedia

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Fast Growth75 2016

A guide to the fastest growing companies in the South West

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2 FAST GROWTH 75 THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 WESTERN MORNING NEWS

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Success distributed right across the board Burts Chips Limited Plymouth crisp-maker Burts Potato Chips has had a good year. It has won a contract to supply 130 Co-op food stores across Devon and Cornwall as it reported a return to profit on sales of £24.7 million. The company reported a return to profit after what it described as a “dynamic year of growth”. Accounts for the 15-month period ending March 31, 2016, showed a pretax profit of £433,663. Burts – which has been making crisps since 1997 – will supply a variety of flavours, including salt-andvinegar and Thai chilli, to the Co-op. Ian Brokenshire says: “Great brand which has a real traction with retailers.” Stonehaven (Healthcare) Ltd This growing company has opened its latest venture – a £3 million dementia care home at Westward Ho! The group is among the largest in the South West and operates care homes in Brixham, Exeter, Exminster, Okehampton, Tavistock, Westward Ho! and Bodmin. The new facility, called Primrose House, is a 30-bed care home with private en-

Ones to watch suite bathrooms. It is a specialist provider of dementia care and has created 30 jobs. The aim is to provide residents with tailored lifestyles and builds on Stonehaven’s experience of a similar development, a tenbedroom high-dependency unit at Chollacott House in Tavistock. Ian Brokenshire says: “There are real opportunities in healthcare for consolidation and ageing demographics.” Bath Ales Limited One of the region’s most popular pub chains and breweries was bought this year by St Austell Brewery in a deal worth millions of pounds. Bath Ales was set up by a group of friends who worked at the former Courage Brewery in the centre of Bristol. With an award-winning brewery in Warmley, the company went on to open a number of pubs in the Bristol area and also several Graze restaurants. Roger Jones, founder of Bath Ales, said it would welcome investment and broader support from St Austell

Brewery. Ian Brokenshire says: “This acquisition by St Austell Brewery and bring a fresh investment and focus.” Watergate Bay Hotel Limited Set on a two-mile stretch of sandy beach in North Cornwall, Watergate Bay Hotel epitomises the contemporary British beach holiday. It opened in 1904 as a terminus hotel for a proposed Newquay to Padstow branch line. Now, it is a go-to destination on the North Cornwall coast. The Hotel also owns The Beach Hut and The Extreme Academy and has opened the first phase of the £8 million The Village holiday apartment development. It also has an agreement to lease Melville, a building at Royal William Yard, for a proposed development of a 70-bedroom hotel. Last year saw the launch of the Another Place hotel collection is launched with the acquisition of the Rampsbeck Hotel at Ullswater in the Lake District. Ian Brokenshire says: “This is an established, expanding enterprise that has plans to invest in Plymouth’s Royal William Yard.”

Andrew Betteridge, Ashfords; Howard Noye, Barclays and Ian Brokenshire, KPMG BY HANNAH FINCH @GardenerFinch

Helping you achieve your growth ambitions Our expert team in Plymouth can provide your business with tax, audit and advisory services. Whether you want growth in profitability, digital transformation or international expansion, we have the experience to help you to get to where you want to be, whatever your plans. Contact: Ian Brokenshire, Senior Partner, KPMG Plymouth Office on +44(0)175 263 2292 or email: ian.brokenshire@kpmg.co.uk www.kpmg.com/uk © 2016 KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved.

Construction, property and media enterprises have emerged as the fastest-growing sectors in the Westcountry economy. This year’s annual Fast Growth 75, the guide to the top expanding firms in the region, shows the three combined account for 39% of business growth, but overall, success has been distributed right across the board. According to accountants KPMG, who have compiled the list for 2016, encouragingly all sectors are showing steady increases in turnover while the middle market of businesses handling £10-£50 million, dominate the region’s growth companies. Ian Brokenshire, office senior partner at KPMG in Plymouth, said: “We are seeing that it is the established companies that are growing, they have access to finance and they already have the momentum and the track record to secure investment.” He said the region has many small lifestyle businesses but they do not always have the aspiration or ability to scale up. “Many small businesses reach a ceiling and it is sometimes quite difficult to make the leap from a five-ten person employer to 50 up to 100,” said Mr Brokenshire. Post-Brexit vote uncertainty has shown its effects predominantly with concerns about currency exposure and increasing pressures on infla-

tion. The Tesco and Unilever row about wholesale costs is an example and future inflation could well impact on the region’s wholesalers and retailers. The retail sector is responsible for 6% of growth in the Westcountry with 19% of businesses featuring in the list. An option for the sector and for the region’s manufacturers could mean looking further afield for trading partners. Mr Brokenshire said: “As a nation we run a £21 billion trade gap in food, as we produce only around 60% of what we eat. The UK is a net importer and to become a strong

‘These companies are the driving force of the economy’ WMN Editor Bill Martin exporting nation cannot happen overnight, it could take years for that to kick in, that’s why many businesses should already looking ahead for export opportunities.” Howard Noye, relationship director at Barclays, said UK retailers could well increase domestic supply chains, which would be good news for the South West businesses. He said: “At a time when we’ve all got to pull together to encourage growth in the UK, this is a very positive sign.” The supplement was compiled in partnership with KPMG who have researched the data using Bureau Van

Dijk’s FAME database, Barclays and law firm Ashfords. To be included in the list companies needed to be registered in either Devon or Cornwall, have a turnover of at least £2 million and have a consistent reporting structure over past four years. Topping the list for the second time in a row is Exeterbased Totus Engineering. A newcomer when it topped the chart last year, the company has built on its success and has come in with an impressive 123% growth rate. The 12-page supplement is the who’s who for businesses which have grown and is now in its eighth year. Fast Growth 75 offers insight and expert analysis into how the Westcountry’s economy is faring. WMN Editor Bill Martin said: “Thank you to our partners KPMG, Barclays and Ashfords for bringing their knowledge and expertise to the Fast Growth 75 supplement. “These companies are the driving force of the South West’s economy and will play a pivotal role in securing the region’s future.” Andrew Betteridge, partner and head of the corporate and commercial teams at Ashfords LLP, said: “The strong growth in construction matches our own experience, and suggests that government policy of encouraging housebuilding is having an effect. We have also noticed growth in the wholesale and retail sectors. It is also good to see engineering companies featured. Growth in manufacturing is especially important for the region.”

WESTERN MORNING NEWS THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 FAST GROWTH 75 3

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Revamp for marine dive station

CASE STUDY

Jeremy Kent, Phil Rock and Tim Read founded Totus Engineering in Exeter

Totus named as region’s fastest-growing company BY HANNAH FINCH @GardenerFinch Young engineering company Totus Engineering has topped the list of the Westcountry’s 75 fastest-growing businesses for the second year running. Totus, based in Exeter, was named as the region’s fastestgrowing company and have this year stayed on top with 123.8%growth and a turnover of £11.5 million. Director Phil Rock said independence had helped bring success. He said: “‘One of the good things about being a privatelyowned company is that you can choose your destiny

without undue pressure from external investors or market expectations. “During last year we noticed a marked downturn in the number of projects that suited our skills, rather than chasing turnover for growth’s sake we had a year of consolidation and maintained our current turnover. The good news is that we retained our skilled employee base and are prepared for any upturn.” The business also has bases in Bodmin and Plymouth and employs 100 staff. It was established in 2010 by Jeremy Kent, Phil Rock and Tim Read who had all enjoyed successful careers in large plcs. Mr Rock said that rapid

Totus Engineering installed mechanical and electrical services for the redevelopment of Plymouth University’s marine dive station as part of a £765,000 flagship project. The £4.65 million marine dive station at Coxside on Plymouth Sound is a base for the university’s marine expeditionary work. Totus spent 26 weeks on the project to equip classrooms, the wet laboratory and aquaria with exterior holding tanks for scientific samples. The latest renewable and energysaving technologies were used including LED light-

ing, a combined heat and power generator and a 6.44kwp PV solar system. The building also has a bespoke sea water extraction system which extracts water from a bore hole on the quay providing fresh sea water for the building’s aquarium, laboratories and teaching spaces. The marine station boasts one of the only direct sea water extraction systems within the UK, enabling the practical teaching of marine biology using specimens and sea water taken direct from Plymouth Sound. A quayside bore hole with inverter driven pumps provides segregated sea water to holding tanks and a bespoke pipework system.

growth has come from the quality of delivery and subsequent repeat business. He said: “Currently we are seeing a dramatic increase in project work and expect to post a significant increase in turnover during this year. “Part of this increase is doubtless due to the general market conditions in our chosen sector, but also our market penetration has increased following the ongoing successful delivery of many projects over the last six years’. Totus specialise in mechanical and electrical contracting across a range of markets within the construction industry.

The agenda for fast-growth firms Businesses in the South West are facing significant uncertainty in a fast-moving business landscape. The companies on the fast Growth 75 list have shown they can deal with this disruption and turn it to their advantage as a catalyst for growth. Here are a few top tips from KPMG. Digitise… or die If you aren’t embracing new digital ways of working, you will be left behind! Technology opens up access to new markets – the opportunity for new business models to flourish. Successful businesses are increasingly focusing on digitisation as a way of unlocking information that gives them competitive advantage. They also focus on mobility – allowing customers and staff to access information from any

Ian Brokenshire , senior partner for KPMG in the South West, explains how firms can stick to the growth agenda amidst change device quickly and easily. But this also means that you can reach customers in new ways. At the very least, websites should be mobile-compatible, and you should give customers multi-channels options for interacting with you. It doesn’t need to be expensive. Not sure where to begin? One of my top tips for fastgrowing businesses, is “listen to your staff ”. Accessing funding When approaching lenders, you need to be very clear on what you are going to use the

funding for and what your prospective return will be. Clarity of business plan is essential. Due diligence is also very important. Ensuring that any questions or concerns raised by funders are addressed in advance will make the process simpler and more efficient. There is a huge variety of affordable funding for businesses from an increasingly broad spectrum of lenders. The people agenda With growth will come change, and if managed poorly, your people could be the barrier to success. Ensure you have great HR leadership in your team to manage staffing, capability, engagement and transition as you implement significant change. As you grow, you will also need to reassess your structure.

Building a better future. Piece by piece. How Barclays is helping build-your-own computer company Kano unlock its potential. Kano Office, London Yonatan Raz-Fridman, Co-Founder, and Alex Klein, Co-Founder and CEO, Kano Juliet Rogan, Relationship Director, Barclays Kano’s vision is simple. A computer anyone can build and program themselves. Recognising Kano’s potential to inspire a generation of coders, we provided a US$1m working capital facility to support Kano’s vision. Co-founder Yonatan Raz-Fridman says “Our ambition is to help young people become a powerful force. Coding is increasingly important in today’s society, and Barclays is helping us to impart a valuable skill”. To find out how we can help your business succeed, call Howard Noye on +44 (0) 7766 364 541*, email howard.noye@barclays.com or visit barclays.com/corporatebanking

Barclays is a trading name of Barclays Bank PLC and its subsidiaries. Barclays Bank PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services No. 122702). Registered in England. Registered number is 1026167 with registered office at 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP. * Please note: this is a mobile phone number and calls will be charged in accordance with your mobile tariff.

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Security factors of facial recognition There is an ever-increasing level of competition surrounding facial recognition technology, which is supported by consumer demands and UK retailers. A survey conducted by Computer Science Corp found almost 30% of UK retailers are already using face-recognition technology, allowing the effortless collection of customer data. However, there are numerous security factors that need to be considered when using this technology. Many retailers use face-recognition technology to establish a shopper’s race, gender, age, and identify them as a returning customer. Identity thieves typically use photo identification that they have stolen or found, and security systems such as face-recognition technology makes it easier to catch out these criminals and help to prevent fraud. Although retailers have argued this represents significantly enhanced security, there are concerns about whether this is invasive. It can be argued that, given the vast amount of data that facial recognition technology provides, there are significant

Louise Workman , partner and head of retail, and Chris Dyson, partner and head of technology, of Ashfords ask how reliable is facial recognition technology. security concerns surrounding this. The data could also potentially be used for manipulative or predatory advertising. A recent example of facerecognition technology use is Mastercard, which has allowed online shoppers to take a selfie to verify their identity for payments, as the consumer trend is moving away from credit cards and the traditional payment methods. Customers will be able to complete purchases without entering a password or pin, but will be asked to authorise payment with a fingerprint scan or face recognition. On the other hand, online platforms have made shopping more efficient, convenient and personalised for consumers. Facial-recognition across all stores, both online and on the high-street would allow for similar results by collecting information on how they move through the stores, how long

they look at specific products, and their facial expressions when looking at the items and prices. Retailers have claimed they would be able to optimise their stores and the customers experience , similar to existing online optimisation. There are a number of obvious convenience factors for consumers using face-recognition software, such as eliminating PIN numbers or passwords. However, there remains an underlying question of would this method make it easier for fraudsters to scam or steal from people. Issues of consent and privacy must be considered in order to balance the benefits of facial recognition with the trust and loyalty of the customer base. It is also important to appreciate the volume of information that this technology collects without consent. At Ashfords we assist and support companies with data protection and security concerns. Our specialist technology and retail team have the expertise and sector knowledge, best placing us to support our clients in continuing to achieve growth and development.

Simon Lomax, MD of Kensa Heat Pumps Ltd

Kensa leading way in green-energy market BY HANNAH FINCH @GardenerFinch

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Niche green-energy products have taken off for Cornish company Kensa. The heat-pump manufacturer and installer has found a strong footing in the residential market – making it one of the fastest-growing companies in the region. Kensa appears on the list at number 36. It has enjoyed 23% growth with a £2.4 million tur nover. At first, Kensa’s products were considered somewhat niche with an appeal to those embarking on Grand Designsstyle projects but without mass market appeal. As renewable energy started to gain in popularity and profile, the market grew larger – but so, too, did the competition, with much larger, European operations entering into the UK marketplace. Continued uncertainty over Government subsidies for the renewable heat sector has meant that many of these

larger rivals have focused their efforts on other markets or on other products, leaving Kensa as the current UK market leader, something managing director Simon Lomax is clearly very proud of. He said: “As a relatively small business that is competing against better resourced rivals with global and panEuropean distribution networks, we have emerged as market leader in terms of the volume of sales.” The business was founded in 1999 by Richard Freeborn and Guy Cashmore. The pair returned to their home county of Cornwall after working on luxury yachts. The business was inspired by their time at sea where they had seen heat pumps in action. They soon started making the units themselves after realising the imported heat pumps they were installing could be improved on. The business soon expanded from a lock-up garage in Falmouth to a 27-acre, run-down former mine site at Mount Wellington, near United

Downs, between Truro and Redruth. Mr Freeborn bought the site through a separate business and, after substantial work was carried out to bring the overgrown, derelict buildings back into use, Kensa is now one of four tenants at the park, moving into its base in 2007. The vision is to turn the site into a location for renewables businesses, establishing it once again as an employment hub for the area. Kensa employs 32 people, with a sales office in Exeter as well as its manufacturing base at Mount Wellington. Mr Lomax said: “The Government pretends that it seeks to provide certainty to investors in the renewable energy sector but its record does not support that assertion. It’s very tough indeed. “We survive because we have designed a product that can be assembled using semiskilled workers so that we can quickly recruit production staff, train them and have them fully productive within a short period.”

Transport firm delivers turnover of £33.5m Plymouth transport firm Kay Transport Ltd has delivered results this year. The firm is part of the Gregory Group of Companies and has enjoyed 24.5% growth this year with a turnover of £33.5 million. The business is listed at 30 this year, down from 25 in 2015.

It has come a long way since 1979, when it was established in Plymouth with one van, predominantly moving air freight from the West Country to the London Airports. In its first year of trading, it enjoyed a turnover of £300,000 with just one member of staff.

It specialises in the collection and distribution of pallets, locally, nationally and inter nationally. It was bought by the Gregory Group of companies in 2009 and now has distribution depots in Truro, Ivybridge and Shepton Mallet, more than 100 vehicles and 200 staff.

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Seasalt rides crest of fashion industry wave BY HANNAH FINCH @GardenerFinch Cornish retailer Seasalt is on a crest of a wave. The company celebrates 35 years in business this year and its continued success is evident in the figures. The latest numbers show that Seasalt Ltd has enjoyed 32.2% growth with a turnover of £28.2 million. It sits at number 19 in our list – down three places from 16 in 2015. Seasalt was founded by the Chadwick family in 1981. They were on holiday in rainy Cornwall when they came across Penzance outlet General Clothing Stores. They popped in to buy waterproof coats and ended up buying the shop. The business has come along way since it sold the first traditional fishermen’s smocks, Guernsey pullovers and stripey tops – but Seasalt

has never forgotten its roots and it is a style that continues to inspire the range. The business is now owned by the Chadwick brothers – Leigh, Neil and David and was co-founded with Neil’s wife, print designer Sophie Chadwick under the Seasalt name in 2001. She creates the textile designs for 12 collections a year inspired by Cornwall, from the artistic feel of St Ives, the fishing communities in Newlyn and Mousehole to the beautiful Cornish sub tropical gardens. Co-founder Neil Chadwick said: “People like the integrity of the brand and the heritage. We really are what we say we are, we are rooted in the county and celebrate it in our products.” Seasalt has grown quickly, and is increasingly recognised as a sustainable fashion brand. It is set to open its 40th store this year, all in destination towns and cities.

It supplies wholesale to around 350 stockists with exclusive collections at 28 John Lewis stores, at JohnLewis.com and at 10 Fenwick stores. It has a thriving online presence, increased by 27% this year and has an ever expanding range that now includes home and footwear. Neil explained the internet is a key part of the business. “It is important that we go where our customers go,” he said. “The fashion industry is a tough one and we keep our offering fresh with 12 collection a year. “We are brand that is right for the times. We are proud of what we do and we conduct our business in a friendly, original way and people really welcome that.” Seasalt is one of Cornwall’s biggest employers providing a number of creative roles in the county. Neil said: “We are really proud to work in Cornwall and to be able to put back into the economy.”

National expertise from a local business

The Chadwick brothers – Leigh, Neil and David – outside Seasalt

Overall gains to be had as increased automation could help safeguard UK manufacturing jobs Our manufacturing sector is widely perceived as under-investing in automation and at first sight, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that we lag behind some of our international competitors in terms of take-up of robotics. The UK was ranked 19th worldwide in 2012 in terms of robot density in the manufacturing sector with a level barely above the global world average. Our automotive industry, for example, has been shown to be operating with half as many robots as those used in Germany, which is regularly cited as the European industry standard-bearer for automation. There has been widespread speculation that this lack of investment could be one factor behind the UK’s relatively low levels of productivity. To test if the perception of under-investment in robotics and automation matches the reality on the UK factory floor, we carried out a survey of manufacturers in Britain and Ger many. The results show the UK manufacturing sector does not

Steve Beavan , relationship director, says a Barclays survey shows how extra investment in automation could have a big impact believe it is lagging behind to the extent that many people believe. More than half (58%) of UK respondents say their business has invested in automation. This compares to 66% in Germany. Furthermore, 68% of UK manufacturers see potential for increasing investment in automation in the future, a similar level to that in Germany (71%). Those businesses that are investing in automation report that they are seeing clear benefits. Barriers to investment However, our survey also identifies barriers that are potentially blocking more transformative investment. Many respondents point to a lack of both internal funds (23%), external grants and other sources of finance (15%). More than one third (36%) of respondents believe there is

“very little or no support” available to their business when it comes to automation. Quantifying the benefits Using several “what if ” scenarios, our economic modelling finds that even a moderate increase of £1.24 billion in overall automation investment could raise the value added by the manufacturing sector to the UK economy by £60.5 billion over the next decade, compared to anticipated usual investment levels. There would be an indirect impact on the supply chain and on the wider economy which could be expected to amount to an increase of £2.5 billion a year by 2020 and £3.9 billion a year by 2025. Increased automation could safeguard UK manufacturing jobs – overall gains for the UK economy of our moderate investment uplift scenario, compared to business-as-usual, would be 33,000 manufacturing jobs by 2020 and 73,500 jobs by 2025. And 57% of our survey respondents said increased investment in automation will help upskill their employees. steven.beavan@barclays.com, 07881 317981

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Fast Growth 75 2016 Rank Previous Rank

Company name

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Totus Engineering Limited PPI Claimline Limited The Diverse Income Trust PLC Natatomisam Limited Devonshire Homes Limited Hydrok U.K. Ltd. Cavanna Homes (Devon) Limited MJL Cornwall Limited Madeleine Fashion Limited Marlico Limited Auden Mckenzie (Pharma Division) Limited Maximus People Services Ltd Newcross Healthcare Solutions Limited Eagle One Investment Holdings Limited Argyll Environmental Ltd P J Davidson Holdings Ltd. London & Devonshire Trust Limited Gilbert And Goode Limited Seasalt Limited Twofour Broadcast Limited Centek Holdings Limited Pendennis Steve Hoskin Construction Limited Sbaw Group Limited Vetswest Limited Sharp's Brewery Limited Neat Experts Limited Mi-Space (UK) Limited Landmark Information Group Limited Kay Transport Limited Stormfront Retail Limited CWC (UK Holdings) Limited Hemsley Fraser Group Limited Fifields Limited Daish's Group Limited Kensa Heat Pumps Limited Shervey Limited CDS (Superstores International) Limited Hatchmoor Nursing Home Limited Pearce Construction (Barnstaple) Limited Research Instruments Limited Cornish Farm Dairy Limited Pathfinder Park Homes Limited Troy (UK) Limited PRO - Direct Group Limited Riverford On Home Farm Limited Cox & Robinson (Agricultural) Limited Denbow Assets Limited 3t's Leisure Ltd. Quest End Computer Services Limited Ignition Credit PLC Falmouth Exeter Plus Frazer-Nash Consultancy Limited Westbank Community Health And Care Goodridge Limited Morleigh Limited Cavendish Close Limited Exeter Rugby Club Limited Frobishers Juices Limited XYZ Machine Tools Limited Warm Welcome Management Limited Bott Limited Applied Automation (UK) Limited Strategic Equity Capital PLC Marine And Towage Holdings Limited GGP UK Limited Inklefinklestein Limited Wainhomes (South West) Holdings Limited Midas Construction Limited Securi-Guard (Holdings) Ltd Houndstone (Yeovil) Limited Helston Garages Limited Roger Young Limited Aero Stanrew Limited Fahey's Concrete Limited

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Latest Average accounts date Growth (Turnover %) 123.85 31/12/2015 94.37 31/03/2015 79.50 31/05/2015 68.62 31/12/2014 60.12 31/12/2015 58.80 31/10/2014 52.00 30/11/2015 46.58 30/09/2015 44.28 30/09/2015 44.03 30/04/2015 42.47 31/03/2015 40.40 30/09/2015 38.29 30/04/2015 37.95 31/03/2015 37.85 30/09/2015 35.22 31/05/2015 34.17 31/12/2015 32.88 31/03/2015 32.21 31/01/2015 31.01 31/12/2014 30.97 31/10/2015 29.47 31/12/2014 28.03 30/09/2015 27.92 30/06/2015 26.83 31/03/2015 25.14 31/12/2014 25.10 31/12/2014 24.70 30/04/2015 24.62 30/09/2015 24.51 03/10/2015 23.84 30/09/2015 23.67 31/12/2015 23.65 31/12/2014 23.34 31/03/2015 23.25 30/09/2015 23.02 30/04/2015 22.85 31/07/2015 22.75 25/01/2015 21.48 31/07/2015 21.15 30/04/2015 20.54 31/03/2015 20.51 30/04/2015 20.33 31/03/2015 20.23 31/12/2014 20.20 31/12/2014 19.80 02/05/2015 19.45 30/09/2015 19.26 31/03/2015 19.13 31/10/2015 19.00 30/09/2015 18.87 31/12/2015 17.92 31/07/2015 17.71 31/03/2016 17.65 31/03/2015 17.39 31/12/2014 16.81 31/03/2015 16.74 31/03/2015 16.72 30/06/2015 16.51 31/03/2015 16.46 30/04/2015 16.01 30/04/2015 15.85 31/12/2014 15.73 31/03/2015 15.69 30/06/2015 15.59 30/06/2015 15.13 31/08/2015 15.05 31/12/2015 14.96 30/06/2015 14.79 30/04/2015 14.70 30/04/2015 14.66 31/12/2014 14.64 31/12/2014 14.60 31/12/2014 14.43 28/02/2015 14.42 30/06/2015

Turnover GBP Last avail. Yr 11,520 3,105 14,540 26,363 26,648 13,102 24,256 30,267 9,800 24,343 128,763 33,040 67,575 14,016 5,021 15,476 33,378 15,237 28,213 29,388 27,411 3,790 41,377 5,026 79,885 37,917 28,395 73,928 56,648 33,510 46,784 248,065 25,345 3,431 13,880 2,471 5,927 565,064 2,378 26,337 11,311 34,878 12,076 65,677 59,295 4,344 9,600 11,339 21,385 11,064 3,281 23,982 81,701 7,397 34,494 6,590 4,183 13,223 4,409 28,863 6,658 36,462 15,041 2,176 9,344 43,357 7,293 80,063 179,918 7,381 27,648 17,692 55,322 16,532 13,541

Turnoverth City Trade GBP Year - 1

Trade description

11,619 12,245 8,953 10,917 7,829 6,221 12,115 27,439 6,872 20,070 77,232 38,830 45,440 7,378 3,970 7,002 29,666 6,968 21,334 35,749 40,367 1,567 29,262 2,343 69,547 36,924 19,334 37,449 52,691 27,403 52,485 201,769 13,580 2,643 12,128 2,018 4,543 470,282 2,082 20,677 8,817 31,664 10,024 54,297 55,324 4,023 6,179 9,126 14,851 10,638 2,053 22,629 71,409 6,152 18,088 5,791 4,428 11,268 3,831 25,359 5,049 29,094 13,357 1,751 12,855 38,346 7,171 62,600 145,893 7,461 24,312 13,086 51,047 15,482 11,841

Mechanical and electrical engineering. Claim management services focused on recovery of mis-sold payment protection insura A group engaged in the an investment trust company. A group engaged in investment and property. The development of residential property in the West Country. Environmental engineering. Builders, developers and dealers of land. A group engaged in the contracting, haulage and property development. Retailing women's fashion wears. Wholesale and distribution of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The manufacture and wholesale of pharmaceutical products. The provision of training services for the disadvantaged of the community. An agency specialising in the provision of nursing and ancillary staff. A group engaged in property development and investment. Environmental consultants. A group engaged in the concrete and slipform paving, game shoot management. A group engaged in residential and commercial property development and property ma Building contractors. The retail and wholesale of clothing and footwear. The production of television programmes and corporate communication programmes. A group engaged in the manufacture of centralisers and stop collars for the oil and gas Yacht design, construction and refit of 60 meter plus superyachts. Civil engineering contractors. A group engaged in a hotel, providing storage & leisure facilities, lilting & developing p Buying operation of veterinary products. The distribution and brewing of beer. A group engaged in the refurbishment contractors. The provision of construction services to the social affordable housing market. The provision of environmental risk reports on land and property. Road transport and distribution. The sale of Apple computer products and related items from retail stores. A group engaged in the sale of new and used vehicles and the provision of related ser The provision of people and organisational solutions through training. General Builders. A group engaged in the provision of coaching holidays. The development of heat pumps for the heating and cooling of residential and industri A group engaged in owning and operating residential care homes. A group engaged in the operation of retail stores and associated activities. Residential nursing home care. Construction and residential development. The provision of design, manufacture and sale of products for the medical, electronic, n Production and wholesale supply of dairy products. The manufacture and maintenance of mobile homes. A group engaged in the wholesale distribution and sale of tools and equipment. A group engaged in the supply of sports clothing, footwear and sports equipment thro Processing and selling of organic produce. Agricultural merchants specialising in sales to livestock farmers. Specialist land excavation & remediation, offering clients a full range of services. The retail and refurbishment of caravans, manufacture of lodges and the operation of h The provision of computer services and the sale of computers and peripherals. The provision of commercial asset funding and financial brokerage services. A group engaged as a joint venture to operate a range of services on the tremough ca The provision of systems and engineering technology services to a wide range of indus The provision of support and daycare for the elderly and infirm and facilities to improv A group engaged in the manufacture and sale of fluid transfer systems and ancillary pr A group engaged in the management of nursing and residential care homes for the eld The operation of a care home. The provision of playing and promotion of rugby together with providing conferencing The distribution of fruit juices and mineral waters. The import, marketing service of engineering equipment and machines. A group engaged in hotel accommodation, publishing services and brewing. The manufacture and marketing of tool storage equipment. The design, manufacture and supply of pneumatic and hydraulic industrial control and An approved investment trust. A group engaged in the commercial work boat operators. The distribution of garden machinery and related products. A group engaged in the provision of management services and manufacture and sale o Residential development. The provision of a complete range of property related services to both private and pub A group engaged in a installation and maintenance of security systems, remote alarm The sale and repair of vehicles and the supply of motor accessories. The sale, repair and hire vehicles and the supply of motor accessories. Trading as 'Trus A 'land rover' dealership. The manufacture and design of transformers and electronic assemblies. The supply of ready-mix concrete.

Exeter, Devon Paignton, Devon Exeter, Devon Plymouth, Devon Tiverton, Devon St Columb, Cornwall Torquay, Devon Helston, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Torquay, Devon Barnstaple, Devon Exeter, Devon Totnes, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Tiverton, Devon St Austell, Cornwall Falmouth, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Newton Abbot, Devon Falmouth, Cornwall Liskeard, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Bideford, Devon Wadebridge, Cornwall Newton Abbot, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Saltash, Cornwall Exeter, Devon Torquay, Devon Truro, Cornwall Torquay, Devon Plymouth, Devon Barnstaple, Devon Barnstaple, Devon Falmouth, Cornwall Lostwithiel, Cornwall Newton Abbot, Devon Barnstaple, Devon Newton Abbot, Devon Buckfastleigh, Devon South Molton, Devon Exeter, Devon Winkleigh, Devon Exeter, Devon Truro, Cornwall Penryn, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Truro, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Exeter, Devon Torquay, Devon Bude, Cornwall Plymouth, Devon Exeter, Devon Brixham, Devon Plymouth, Devon Newton Abbot, Devon Okehampton, Devon Exeter, Devon Plymouth, Devon Helston, Cornwall Helston, Cornwall Saltash, Cornwall Barnstaple, Devon Par, Cornwall

www.kpmg.co.uk © 2016 KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. The KPMG name and logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of KPMG International.

tection insurance.

WESTERN MORNING NEWS THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 7

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FAST GROWTH 75 CRITERIA The Fast Growth 75 list has been researched and produced by KPMG, using Bureau van Dijk’s FAME database. To be included in the list companies needed to have a registered office and to operate from Devon or Cornwall;have a turnover greater than £100,000 in the first of the four years’ accounts reviewed and over £1 million in the latest year, and have a consistent reporting structure throughout the four years. In instances where there were multiple companies from the same group a representative company was chosen. All the companies that met these criteria were then ranked by mean sales growth over the four-year period to arrive at the final list of 75

TOP 75 Growth Companies Proportion of Turnover by Sector Banks

Construction

14%

30%

Food & Drink 9%

Health & Care Hotels & Restaurants

Land & Property

Manufacturing

Other services Transport

10%

Wholesale & retail trade

gement. d property management and hotel development and management.

TOP 75 GROWTH COMPANIES - AVERAGE ANNUAL Banks GROWTH BY SECTOR

rogrammes. he oil and gas industries.

Construction 6%

& developing property, music & entertainment, artistic.

10%

Food & Drink

13%

Health & Care

13%

Land & Property

arket.

13%

Manufacturing Media & Communications Other services

of related servicing and repairs.

Transport & Logistics Wholesale & retail trade

TOP 75 GROWTH COMPANIES - BY SECTOR

l and industrial buildings.

19%

l, electronic, neuroscience, transgenic, computer and cloning markets.

Banks Construction

Food & Drink

10%

Health & Care 3%

pment. quipment through the internet and by mail order.

ervices. operation of holiday parks. erals. es. tremough campus. ange of industrial and governmental organisations. ies to improve health and fitness. nd ancillary products. mes for the elderly.

Hotels & Restaurants

24%

Hotels & Restaurants

Land & Property Manufacturing Media & Communications

Other services

17%

Transport & Logistics

Count of Joined

Wholesale & retail trade

TOP 75 GROWTH COMPANIES - TURNOVER BANDINGS

conferencing and banqueting facilities at Sandy Park Stadium.

ng.

21%

l control and manipulation equipment.

Joined

13%

Under £5m

5% 15%

ure and sale of games, toys, glassware and giftware.

vate and public sector clients. emote alarm monitoring.

34%

ading as 'Truscotts Helston' and 'Helston Garages'.

Over £100m £5m-£10m £50m-£100m

12%

£20m-£50m £10m-£20m

8 FAST GROWTH 75 THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 WESTERN MORNING NEWS

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Supply chain is crucial for your success The origin of the products on British shelves could change as retailers adjust their supply chains following the UK’s vote to leave the EU, finds new research published by Barclays. A survey of retailers carried out after the EU referendum, shows that many are already reconsidering the location of their supply chains, as a result of the decision to leave the EU. Shifting supply chains In a potentially positive sign for the British economy, a third of retailers (32%) predict that they will source more locally, with only 12% expecting a reduction. Asia could also be a winner; 52% expect to increase supply chain activity in India and 43% in China. Consumers can expect to buy more products with an African supply source (38%), but Europe fares less well, with 43% of respondents anticipating a reduction in what they source from the region. Howard Noye, Relationship Director, Retail & Wholesale at Barclays, said: “Getting your supply chain strategy right can be the key to success for retailers. It’s a mixed picture, but there are some encouraging findings in our postBrexit survey. Retailers are not overly pessimistic about the impact of the vote on their supply chains, and yet they are still thinking carefully about what they need to do now, in particular with regards to which regions they source from and their foreign exchange strategy. “It’s also reassuring to note that most retailers don’t intend to pass on costs to their

Howard Noye , Relationship Director at Barclays says UK retailers are poised to move supply chains after Brexit vote. customers and will instead look for other ways to tackle supply chain issues. The really significant news is that a third of retailers surveyed intend to increase domestic supply chain activity. At a time when we’ve all got to pull together to encourage growth in the UK this is a very positive sign, and at Barclays, we’re committed to doing all we can to support our clients with their supply chain strategy and to help British businesses thrive.” Brexit impact on prices There are mixed feelings amongst retailers when considering the impact of the referendum vote on their supply chains. Although half (52%) think that their business is unprepared for Brexit, a small majority (56%) actually think that Brexit will have no real impact (41%) or a positive impact (15%) on their supply chain. There are some reassuring findings on the cost implications of the referendum result, as most retailers (59%) expect supply chain costs to remain the same or just increase slightly. Consumers will also be relieved to discover that only a third of retailers (31%) expect cost changes to result in price increases for customers. 07766 364 541 howard.noye@barclays.com

The Clarke Family have put in collective effort to make Trewithen Dairy a success story with lots more to tell

Successful Cornish dairy is the cream of the crop Trewithen Dairy has continued a further impressive growth rate throughout 2016, despite ongoing challenges in the UK dairy market, with this summer seeing the biggest volumes ever through Trewithen Dairy’s world class production facility. Based in the Glynn Valley, near Lostwithiel, Cornwall, Cornish Farm Dairy, trading as Trewithen Dairy, is run by the Clarke family. The company works with 25 farms and farmers within 25 miles away from the dairy’s headquarters. Managing director Francis Clarke, said: “No-one can deny that trading in the dairy industry in the 21st century has

been tough and especially tough for farmers. However, with a dedicated plan for our ongoing strategic development of the Trewithen Dairy processing facility, surrounding office environment and in our senior team, plus commitment to our dedicated team at large, we have been successfully weathering the storms and continuing to deliver a good price back to our valued farmers, whilst still growing volume sales.” Now in its 22nd year of trading, Trewithen Dairy is the third largest direct milk buyer in Cornwall and produces a range of milk, butter, creams, as well as its Cornish Clotted

Cream plus a range of yoghurt. It is listed at number 42, down from 28 with 20.5% growth and £34.8milion tur nover. The business has grown rapidly over the last five years, heavily investing in the dairy and its people, with a £12million redevelopment project titled the ‘Milky Way’. This project includes a large and growing commitment in training at every level to ensure continuous improvement of the people who are a vital part of this successful company. The company employs about 150 staff. Trewithen Dairy has also

invested in a successful rebrand to create a consistent and impactful image and unique tone of voice for its product range. This has gained the dairy hundreds of new hospitality and retail customers in Cornwall and the South West in an extremely short timescale. Trewithen Dairy is proud of its relationship with Fortnum & Mason in London with Trewithen Clotted Cream still being the only Cornish Clotted Cream available in the store. Trewithen Dairy won the prestigious 2015 Grocer Gold Award for the best SME Retail Brand of the Year.

Businesses can build on success with the right support Congratulations to all the businesses in the Fast Growth 75. This impressive review comes just after news that the South West’s economy is growing again, after a brief slump following the vote to leave the EU. In fact, the latest Lloyds Bank South West PMI showed that our region’s recent economic growth is the secondsharpest among 12 UK regions monitored. Recent reports also suggest that business confidence in the South West is at a low ebb. While there are different views about the result of the EU referendum among our business clients, there is uncertainty among all of us about what the long term ef-

Sonya Bassett , Partner and Head of Corporate & Commercial at Coodes Solicitors, congratulates the region’s success fects will be. Here in Cornwall, we have the additional concerns about the impact of Brexit on EU grant funding for businesses. In amongst all this uncertainty are robust, well managed businesses simply “getting on with it”. At Coodes Solicitors we are privileged to be working with businesses, large and small, from sectors ranging from tourism to con-

struction, renewable energy and the creative industries, that are expanding and innovating. At Coodes we pride ourselves on being well placed to support businesses as they grow, as well as being there during more difficult times. Recent feedback from one our commercial clients reflects this: “When things are tough…it’s so nice to find some professional people that can help.” Over the last 18 months, we have grown our Business Services team so we are well placed to meet the diverse range of legal challenges a business might face. We can offer specialist advice on a

whole range of issues including commercial property, employment law, corporate structuring and advice, commercial disputes, intellectual property law and much more. Across our network of offices in Cornwall and Devon, we also have sector specialists in renewable energy, construction and the charity sector, as well as a leading planning expert. Our team has a pedigree of operating in major cities including London and Bristol, as well as handling large international cases. However, within the Coodes team there is also a wealth of local knowledge, including a dedicated Rural Services team, who provide specialist legal advice

‘The Fast Growth 75 is a reminder that there is much to celebrate.’ Sonya Bassett

TO F I N D O U T H OW W E S U P P O RT S O U T H W E S T B U S I N E S S E S : Contact Howard Noye on +44 (0) 7766 364 541

to our region’s agricultural businesses. A recent piece of feedback reflects the level of service we can offer: “Throughout the acquisition, Coodes were able to give us an excellent all-round service. They have been as good as any top London firm I’ve worked with and I certainly plan to use them again.” The Fast Growth 75 is a great reminder that there is much to celebrate in the South West. For more information on this or any business enquiries contact Sonya on 01736 362294 or sonya.bassett@ coodes.co.uk www.coodes.co.uk

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Shipyard remains world leader

Over its 28-year history, Pendennis Shipyard has grown into a world leader in its field. It is a specialist in superyachts, creating luxurious new builds and restoring the finest motor and sailing super yachts in the world. Pendennis’ investment in their facilities and people has certainly paid dividends, with the company turnover steadily increasing over the past three years, despite a global downturn in the super yacht sector. Pendennis Plus, a division of the Pendennis Shipyard company, features at 22 in our list

this year, with £29.4% growth and £3.7 million turnover. During the past three years, the shipyard has undergone a £22 million modernisation plan, increasing the available undercover space to provide two 90metre and one 45 metre construction halls, alongside the existing 150m dry dock. Pendennis also completed construction of a 7,564m sq nontidal wet basin. Pendennis invests in the personal development and wellbeing of staff, offering many training initiatives, including the apprenticeship scheme.

The general apprenticeship scheme provides four years of training. Alongside this, Pendennis operates a specialist surface finishing scheme, focusing on the complexities of superyacht painting. These schemes are often recognised as the best of their type and in 2015/6 the scheme was recognised with wins at the Insider Media MISW awards, the Western Morning News Business Awards, and one of the apprentices, Adam Hall, was presented with the gold medal in cabinet making at the World Skills UK 2015.

Significant increases in firm’s core business Engineering firm Applied Automation has seen incredible growth in the last couple of years. The company has expanded its workforce to just over 150, up 15% on September 2015. It has also invested in a large new premises just outside Plymouth. It features at number 63 in our list, down five places from 58 with 15.7% growth. Applied’s latest published sales figures for 2014/15 were £15 million, an increase of £1.1 million on the previous year. The company is seeing significant increases in its core business, building automated machinery. The company has a broad portfolio and services industries including automotive, pharmaceutical, food, packaging and marine. The recent growth reflects the bold decisions made by managing director David Rowe to grasp business development opportunities. Mr Rowe said: “We have a number of operating divisions that serve different markets

and our plans include new distribution partnership agreements and expanding geographically with new sales offices. Applied is an ambitious company. “Brexit has given us pause for thought but recent reports seem to suggest manufacturing is bouncing back after the shock result and we haven’t seen any drop off in orders. “The strength of the pound against the euro is a big consideration for us though, as is our trading relationship with Europe as some of our suppliers are in Germany and Scandinavia.” New product lines have been added including the hugely popular Universal Robots. The collaborative robots are robotic arms used to work alongside people on assembly line jobs. This way of working with robots is being hailed as a new era in the industry. Mr Rowe said: “We only started selling the robots at the beginning of the year and we’re already seeing a very healthy order book with en-

quiries from a broad range of industries including automotive and education. “This is a great product for us. It’s a chance to be at the forefront of developments in robotics and we can use the robots in the machines we build, as well as selling them as stand-alone units.” Sales engineers have been recruited in the south and Midlands to drive the geographic expansion of the business. Having the right skills out in the field and at the engineering headquarters is vital for the business. Applied’s approach is to snap up talent in ongoing recruitment as the South West’s skills shortage, particularly for mechanical, control and software designers, can be a challenge. The marine division, Applied Marine Automation, has signed a new deal with Böning, a German manufacturer of control and monitoring equipment for luxury yachts and work boats. That deal has led to a boom in business.

WESTERN MORNING NEWS THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 FAST GROWTH 75 9

Region needs to keep up investment in education and infrastructure to maintain the momentum Brexit. The headlines have been dominated by the European referendum for the best part of this year and, of course, while the form of Brexit emerges it will continue to do so for the foreseeable. Businesses have been affected in different ways by the result. Uncertainty is clearly unhelpful as it undermines consumer and business confidence. The significant devaluation of the pound has been one immediate effect and has been a double edged sword with businesses being winners and losers depending on sector and where they buy and sell. Brexit headlines aside, what is going well in the South West? Ashfords is delighted to sponsor the Fast Growth 75 again and take a moment to focus on the good stuff. A review of the Fast Growth 75 shows a diverse range of businesses but with a strong emphasis on some core industries including construction, manufacturing, engineering and the care sectors with significant growth being achieved. We are proud to have worked with some of these businesses in the last year. The Corporate Team at Ash-

Rory Suggett , Corporate Partner at Ashfords says that the South West is striding ahead despite Brexit uncertainty fords has this October again been ranked by Experian as the busiest in the South West for volume of corporate transactions closed as well as being high in the national league tables. This gives us good insight as to what is going on in the market right now when it comes to buying and selling businesses and investment. Our experience of 2016, both sides of the referendum, has been that the deal activity has been good in the South West. We have seen some strong exits creating substantial shareholder value particularly in the technology sector. The most prevalent exit route for IP rich-tech companies is trade sales to North American purchasers. Indeed with sterling at present rates, it makes British companies more attractive than ever, particularly where they have scalable IP. When it comes to raising

venture capital or private equity, the volume of financing transactions that we see for earlier stage companies in the South West is comparatively low as a region. Access to growth capital outside London is still patchy and most London institutional investors we speak to are inundated with opportunities without having to look too far geographically. In a year where we are being told that many of the traditional jobs of our generation will be replaced by artificial intelligence in our children’s generation, clearly the South West needs to keep up the investment in education and the infrastructure. There are good reasons for being optimistic about the future, with the region hosting some excellent universities and their ever-increasing collaboration with incubators and businesses. In that respect our observation is that the resource available to founders in the last decade has improved substantially. Brexit notwithstanding, it needs to be a priority of the Government and for the region to maintain the momentum.

By Your Side. On Your Side Thomas Westcott, a team of 250 people in the region offering pragmatic and common sense advice to help your business grow.

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10 FAST GROWTH 75 THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 WESTERN MORNING NEWS

The transformation agenda Most companies I work with have a grand vision for transforming their company, but very few are realistic about what it takes to make that vision happen. KPMG has some advice for companies who want to transform. Have a clear focus What are you actually trying to achieve? That might sound like a ridiculous question, but you need to start with a clear focus on outcome. Do you want growth? Cost efficiency? Profit or cash enhancement? Improved operating performance? M&A or some other combination of goals? The reality is that objectives differ and so should your approach. Are your plans realistic? Aspirational plans look good on paper, but are your goals realistic and your plans defined and deliverable? You need to continually review and revise your aims to keep them grounded and relevant. Early wins will inspire The importance of early wins can’t be overstated. They build belief through the organisation, make people take notice and, importantly, can help fund the journey. Sometimes the way to prove something will work is to make it work a little at a time. Don’t slow down It’s easy to slow down after you’ve had some early wins,

Andy Gordon , senior manager for KPMG in Plymouth explains what it takes to transform a company

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Midas Group building growth

because you assume everything will come together after a successful start. But fatigue can set in and organisations need to sustain the effort. Most transformations run over a three- to five-year timescale – that’s a long time to keep things going. Communication is key Regular communication with stakeholders is important. Everyone needs to know the bigger picture, understand their part in it, and be clear on how things are progressing. The right team The CEO must ensure that transformation is a core strategic priority, but transforming a business is a full-time job, and the CEO can’t do it alone. You need a transformation team accountable for driving through the strategy. Don’t under-estimate outside help Companies often come to regret ‘going it alone’, when progress is slow. If you haven’t got people with the skills the transformation demands, delivering it will be a challenge, and you need to look outside your organisation.

Both Midas and its residential arm, Mi-space, feature in the FG75 2016

As ambitious as our clients We are focused on getting our clients the results they want and thrive on being a part of their success

BY HANNAH FINCH @GardenerFinch Both Midas and Mi-space are included in this year’s Fast Growth 75. Mi-space is the affordable housing division of The Midas Group, one of the largest independent construction companies in the South West. The Exeter-based Midas Group has enjoyed ongoing growth and success over the past 12 months across its six market-facing divisions, attributed in large part to the company’s firm commitment to industry-leading customer service, as well as exceptional perfor mance. It is at number 69 in the list with 14.7% growth and £179.9 million turnover. Midas, which celebrated its 40th anniversary this year, has offices throughout the South West, South East and Wales and the company has expanded significantly over the past

40 years to provide a complete building proposition incorporating businesses in construction, retail, energy and interiors. The Mi-space division has made especially great strides this year, featuring at number 28 on our list with 24.7% growth and £73.9 million turnover. The division provides a range of services for housing providers, from one-off tendered new build developments through to delivering a framework for the refurbishment of existing housing stock. It has managed a number of key high-profile projects which have received recognition in the last 12 months. The Mi-space team has worked alongside Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) on a four-year project to enable the local housing provider to transform and modernise more than 300 properties in the North Prospect area of the city. The project is an example

of the offering Mi-space has developed for housing providers, offering an approach which encompasses more than building properties. Another recent flagship project for Mi-space began in early 2016 in Exmouth, where teams started work to transform a Victorian town house into a quality-approved Passivhaus. The first venture of its kind to be carried out in UK, the scheme was delivered on time for East Devon District Council and provided the property with excellent thermal performance, requiring very little energy to heat or cool it. This in turn has reduced its dependence on fossil fuels, meaning lower heating bills for council tenants. Following the Exmouth project, Mi-space is returning to Plymouth having been appointed again by PCH to build 72 ultra-low energy affordable houses in the city, the biggest Passivhaus project the city has ever seen.

Firm changes face of park-home living Ashfords is a national provider of legal and professional services

Devon luxury lodge manufacturer Pathfinder Homes has been changing the face of parkhome living. The company, based at Heathfield in Newton Abbot, has invested in factory expansion to create luxury homes using pioneering designs. Established in 1958, Pathfinder Homes has come a long way since it built its first caravan. The firm has undergone a change of ownership and has continued to grow month-on-month since April. It enters the list for the first time at number 43 with a £12 million turnover and growth of 20.3%. Turnover has increased by

almost 25%due to the spike in the staycation trend and its marketing and sales drive that has attracted a new audience. Bruce MacDonald (above), managing director of Pathfind-

er Homes, said: “Orders have amplified since the beginning of the year leading to big recruitment drives and significant expansion of our factory and the physical space we build in.” The biggest challenge the company faces is access to skilled tradesmen. He said: “We strongly believe that it’s our team that make us stand out from the crowd, they are what make us successful. “It’s proving to be more and more difficult to recruit the expert tradesmen we need.” The firm is currently crafting two new models for launch in 2017. The plans are a closelyguarded secret.

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WESTERN MORNING NEWS THURSDAY OCTOBER 20 2016 FAST GROWTH 75 11

Lots of reasons for brewery to say ‘cheers!’ Cor nwall’s Sharp’s Brewery has got plenty to raise a glass for. The business is set to sell 82 million pints this year, has invested a further £2.5 million of capital into its brewery at Rock, North Cornwall, has Sharp’s products in more than 7,000 UK pubs and is serving even more customers with the county’s most successful ever beer brand, Doom Bar. The increased production at Rock has allowed the launch of a new cask packaging line to keep up with demand for the beer alongside an expanded portfolio including Atlantic Pale Ale. Proceeds from the fir m’s limited release range sponsor all of Cornwall’s Blue Flag beaches and Seaside awards. Sharp’s has seen the business grow by 25.1% with a turnover of 37.9million. There has been exceptional consumer demand in 2016, down to consistent high quality of appealing brands and for mats. Mr Nicholls said that the

brewery’s There’s an Adventure Brewing consumer campaign in which drinkers could win one of three “money can’t buy” adventures with local heroes in food with Michelinstarred chef Nathan Outlaw, surfing with big wave star Andrew Cotton and rugby with former England captain Phil Vickery had been a publicity hit. And by increasing distribution, more customers now have access to beer brands and rates of sale remain very strong. Mr Nicholls said: “The number of breweries has almost trebled in the last decade, according to BBPA data, and despite this and the changing nature of the UK on premise we remain committed to our founding principles of service, value and quality and as a result the business is buoyant. “In fact, Doom Bar is one of only two of the UK’s top ten cask beers in volume growth this year and we continue to grow value for the brand and the category.”

Cavanna’s plans for sustained growth remain firmly on track

Sharp’s Brewery is set to sell 82 million pints this year Doom Bar bottled ale has seen extraordinary growth in 2016 distribution, is now up to 94% of UK multiple grocers and it has become the UK’s No.1 selling premium bottled ale brand this year. The number of permanent Sharp’s Brewery employees has risen this year to 144 up from 135 in 2015 the vast ma-

jority of these are production staff at the brewery in Rock. He said: “This is fantastic news for the local economy. We have also introduced a new apprentice scheme in conjunction with Cornwall College and we are look forward to welcoming and training new recruits into the brewing industry.”

Award-winning Cavanna Homes has its plans for sustained growth remained firmly on track. Cavanna Homes (Devon) UK Ltd is at number seven, up from last year’s position at ten. It has achieved 52%growth with 24.4 million turnover, helping The Cavanna Group as a whole achieve record turnover of £51 million – up 43% on 2014’s £35.9 million. It came as the company sold almost 250 new homes, of which 48 were affordable housing for rent or shared ownership through housing associations. This continued growth has been good news for the local employment market, with staff numbers increasing by a third in recent years. Cavanna now employs 113 staff from its headquarters in Nicholson Road, Torquay, and a further 300 contractors on sites across the region, which is almost double the contracted workforce in 2013. Director Jonathan Cavanna said: “Based on our policy of reinvesting profit, we would hope to see continued steady growth in the future. We are in a strong position to continue offering a range of good quality new homes in attractive locations for local people in the South West. “Current developments include 504,000 and The Boatyard

in Plymouth, Fusion in Paignton, Primrose Hill in Torquay, Market Quarter in Holsworthy, Origins at Dartington, Palstone Meadow in South Brent, Offshore at Stoke Fleming and Rockbeare Briar near Exeter. “We are also working on providing new homes at sites across Devon, from Barnstaple and Blackawton to Stoke Gabriel and Woodbury. “This past year has seen us win a number of awards, including the top five stars from the Home Builders Federation for customer satisfaction – for the fourth year in a row – as well as a Gold from What House? for our partnership work at Horizon in Budleigh Salterton.” Other industry awards include the LABC’s bricks award for Development of the Year (South) for Fusion in Paignton. Accolades for staff included Ian Rankin who was awarded the title of site manager of the year South West from the Building Safety Group and Robbie Robbins who received his second NHBC pride in the job award. Apprentice Andy Cook was named best electrical apprentice at South Devon College. Mr Cavanna said: “Cavanna Homes was founded in 1923 and I am proud to say that as a local family business the enterprise continues to grow.”

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Fast Growth 75 2014 2015 2016

Chris Worrell Partner, Corporate

01752 675016 chris.worrell@footanstey.com Andrew Betteridge, partner at Ashfords LLP Gary Mackay Joint CEO www.footanstey.com 01392 337000 01392 337000 a.betteridge@ashfords.co.uk g.mackay@ashfords.co.uk Foot Anstey LLP is a premier legal practice delivering www.ashfords.co.uk www.ashfords.co.uk specialist, high-value expertise to a discerning client base. With over 200 legal specialists, the firm serves Ashfords nationally asand a leading provider of anto Ashfords isisarecognised leading provider of legal professional services companies and individuals throughout the UK abroad. impressive portfolio of regional, national and international legal and related professional services. Ourand clients areOur ouraim is straightforward help clients getLawyer’s what theyUK want. clients .one Thepriority firm–isto–ranked in The Top 100 number we deliver commercially focused, We have significant experience and depth of knowledge in our straightforward and cost effective advice toFirm our clients Law Firms andand was named Regional Law 2011 at business areas a clear understanding of our markets. Excellent across a range ofthe sectors. Our aim isissimple – towe help ourwith client service is at heart of everything we doaround and work the British Legal Awards. Service built the clients to ensure that ourthat approach reflects their requirements and clients get the results they want. Ashfords is a topadvice, 100 delivery of clear, accurate and commercially aligned aims. law firm with 70+ partners and 490+ staff across our responsiveness needs and aspiration to deliver We areinproud of to ourclient commitment to an social and environmental offices Exeter, Bristol, London, Plymouth, Taunton and concerns and we haveataevery thriving CSR programme, which is led by service excellence level. Tiverton. our staff. Our commitment to excellence is reflected by the quality of our staff and partners, our client testimonials and industry awards.

Ian Brokenshire Senior Partner, Plymouth Office 01752 632100

ian.brokenshire@kpmg.co.uk Ian Brokenshire Office senior partner www.kpmg.co.uk 01752 632292 ian.brokenshire@kpmg.co.uk www.kpmg.co.uk KPMG is a leading provider of professional services including audit, tax and advisory. The team, led by office

KPMG the leading provider of professional services senior ispartner Ian Brokenshire, advises some of thein the South West including audit, tax and advisory. The team, led South West’s most dynamic businesses from industries by office senior partner Ian Brokenshire, advises some of the including healthcare, charity and not for profit, education, South West’s most dynamic businesses from industries manufacturing, travel, leisure and tourism and the public including healthcare, charity and not for profit, education, sector. Ian Brokenshire is South West born and bred manufacturing, travel, technology, leisure and tourism and andpublic is heavily involved in the localiscommunity, the the sector. Ian Brokenshire South Westholding born and role of member of the South Chambers of bred andboard is heavily involved in the localWest community, including Commerce andjobs advising on the task force set up to advising on the task force setjobs up to tackle tackle unemployment in Plymouth. unemployment in Plymouth.

Andrew Wilton Relationship Director, Plymouth

Barclays were the first bank to recognise the need for sector

Lloyds Bank BankCommercial Wholesale Banking & Markets has been Lloyds Banking has been specialisms. Today, 52 sectors benefit from providing the experience and providing customers with the knowledge and products customers the knowledge andaproducts they need to offer expertise of with our dedicated teams.As Barclays client, we can theysecure need togrowth, help them secure manage riskDirector and your business a dedicated, sector-specific Relationship help manage risk growth, and enhance efficiency for and support teamThis with in-depth knowledge ofThis your market, and the enhance forcommitment over 300 years. over 300 efficiency years. to make thecommitment UK economy challenges and opportunities you face within it. They can also to makeyou the UKaccess economy and continues to support British stronger and to support business today provide with to British thestronger range of products and services from through initiatives liketoday Lloyds Banks the businessthe continues through initiatives likein Lloyds across Barclays group to helpparticipation meet your business requirements. Government’s Fundinginfor Scheme.Funding The Bank Banks participation theLending Government’s forhas the righ people with theThe right skills to the support Lending Scheme. Bank has rightbusiness people with the ambitions with a local network of relationships teams, right skills to support business ambitions with a local product experts and sector specialists. network of relationship teams, product experts and sector specialists.

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Andrew Wilton Relationship Director, South West Howard Relationship director 01752 Noye 666899 07766 364 541 01752 666899 andrew.wilton@lloydsbanking.com howard.noye@barclays.com andrew.wilton@lloydsbanking.com www.barclays.com www.lloydsbankcommercial.com www.lloydsbankcommercial.com