Arriva is number one in the Top 250

Jul 16 2009 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

ARRIVA'S success in becoming the premier business in the North East Top 250 companies list is a testament to hard work by its management and staff, according to its North East managing director.

The Sunderland company, which has grown from a small motor dealer to one of Europe’s largest public transport operators, with an annual turnover of £3bn, was recognised yesterday at The Journal Top 250 North East Companies launch.

The Journal Top 250 league of businesses in order of turnover was unveiled to leading business people at the Copthorne Hotel in Newcastle.

Arriva North East managing director Jonathan May said: “This is a fantastic achievement in what has been a challenging year for business. Last year saw us hit a record turnover and expand our operations into 12 countries We are a North East company, proud of our roots, and this award is recognition for the hard work of our staff.”

The Journal Top 250 awards, in their 32nd year, are compiled by Durham Business School and sponsored by Darlington van hire group Northgate.

Northgate managing director Phil Moorhouse said: “It is important that business in whatever sector recognise their achievements and it is clear that a mention in the Top 250 is a measure of that success. …

“The last 12 months have been as difficult as any one of us can remember, but North East businesses are resilient and these awards are a public barometer of the region’s success. At times like this it is important for North East companies to stick together.”

Highest new entrant to the Top 250 was Cumbrian Holdings, the UK’s third-largest chilled seafood provider, with two plants in Cumbria and others in Seaham and Amble. It employs more than 500 people in Seaham and 90 in Amble and during the year landed big contracts with major retailers. Its turnover has risen to almost £136m, placing it 52nd in the Top 250.

Group finance director David Gilthorpe said: “We expanded our operations into the North East after running out of space in Cumbria and shortly afterwards secured two major retailers as new customers.”

Highest climber is Tanfield, maker of Smiths electric vehicles, which soared 97 places to 62. Media relations manager Dan Jenkins said: “The entire team at Tanfield is deservedly proud that we have climbed the Top 250 table by almost 100 places in just 12 months.

“We have built a business on strong foundations and those foundations will lead to further growth as the economic climate changes for the better.”Arriva edged fellow Wearside group Nissan from top spot to second on £2.8bn.

The Journal’s editor Brian Aitken said: “These awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of the companies in the North East who are doing their bit to keep the North East economy as buoyant as possible – companies who demonstrate the ability, the grit, the ingenuity, the innovation to react to market demands.”

:: Click here to see the comeple Top 250 list and to read the publication in full online.