Hospitality companies are growing fast
27 October 2005
Five British hospitality companies are ranked among Europe's 500 fastest growing businesses.
The list, compiled by Europe's 500 Entrepreneurs for Growth lobby group, is based on turnover and staff levels.
Caffè Nero, which opened 43 new sites last year, is the highest entrant, at number 20. The coffee bar chain increased turnover by 28% to £50.5m last year and created 1,400 jobs between 2001 and 2004.
Independent contract caterer Holroyd Howe was not far behind at 24 with a turnover of £26.5m in 2005 (from £18.2m in 2004). The caterer created 478 jobs between 2001 and 2004. The three other entrants were seafood restaurant chain Loch Fyne (59), contract caterer Hopkinson (68) and restaurant group Ma Potter's (117).
