SALES at the north's biggest companies have increased by almost 10 per cent in the past year, new research for a Belfast business publication shows.
The Ulster Business Top 100 Companies 2019 edition once again sees poultry giant Moy Park lead the way for the eighth consecutive year, posting turnover of more than £1.5 billion
Overall, revenue among the Top 100, which is now in its 31st year, increased by 9.4 per cent on the 2018 total to £24.8bn, while the requisite sales for entry to the list now stands at around £12m.
However, across the 100-strong rankings, pre-tax profits fell by 11 per cent, from £1.05bn to £894.7m, in part due to large differentials from some of the bigger companies.
New entrants to the list this year include Thompson Aero Seating, which shot up to number 69, posting turnover of more than £105m, while civil engineering specialists, Henry Group reported revenue of £88.6m, placing it in the number 83 spot. Other companies also saw their positions in the rankings increase significantly over the year.
Ulster Business editor, John Mulgrew, said the latest Top 100 list is a reflection of the performance of firms in the wake of Brexit-related uncertainty.
“It paints another extremely interesting picture of Northern Ireland’s diverse and evolving business landscape and – while stalwarts of industry remain in growth mode – the raft of firms within life sciences, technology and other emerging industries are beginning to rise up the list with burgeoning turnover," he said
Michael Neill, head of office, A&L Goodbody Belfast, who sponsored the Top 100 believes the results highlight the resiliance and determination of local business.
“While many companies are long-standing players and remain unchallenged at the top end of the rankings, it is positive to see businesses continue to rise up the ranks, year-on-year," he said.
Chris Kirke, Moy Park president added:
“We are honoured to be named Northern Ireland’s top company once again and to help shine a light on Northern Ireland’s proud agri-food heritage and strong manufacturing credentials.
“It’s the people in Moy Park that make the company what it is, and I am extraordinarily proud of our great team, and of all our growers and partners who continually go above and beyond to make it the successful business it is today.”
The full Top 100 list included in the 200-page summer edition of the Ulster Business magazine.
