NW firms make Fast 50

TWO businesses from Greater Manchester have made the Deloitte Technology Fast 50, an annual list of the fastest growing UK technology firms.

Valueworks, a Bolton-based provider of supply chain management software, was ranked 46th while Manchester-based web hosting firm UK Fast came 49th.

The Fast 50 rankings are based on turnover growth. The average company in the list saw annual sales rise by 2,585%, up from last year’s 2,177%. Valueworks’ turnover rose by 730% and UK Fast recorded sales growth of 690%.

Will Smith, partner at the accountancy firm Deloitte which sponsors the list, said: “In spite of the challenging financial market conditions, the 2009 Deloitte Fast 50 shows that stellar growth rates are still possible.

“The Fast 50 awards are an opportunity for businesses to gain recognition for their successes and achievements over the previous 12 months.”