A Moray whisky maker was Scotland’s top private company in 2015, according to a new report.
William Grant and Sons, which is based in Dufftown, where it makes Glenfiddich, ranked number one out of 100 Scottish firms in the second annual Scotland Ltd report by accountancy firm Grant Thornton.
The same report, which comes up with its rankings using a measure of turnover and profits, found nearly a quarter of Scotland’s top 100 businesses are in the north of the country.
Nine companies registered in Aberdeen made the list. Car dealer John Clark ranked highest, in 15th place, while energy firms Balmoral Group and Craig Group and automotive-parts distributor Dingbro also featured.
In Aberdeenshire, there were spots for Fraserburgh-based Gray and Adams, which makes refrigerated trailers and vehicles, housebuilder Stewart Milne of Westhill, and animal feed firm Harbro of Turriff, among others.
Inverness notched a trio of entries in the shape of Global Energy Group, Orion Engineering Services and motor group Macrae and Dick.
In Moray, William Grant and Sons was not the only firm to make the cut. It was joined by Elgin-based infrastructure group Robertson, Walkers Shortbread of Aberlour and Fochabers soup business Baxters.
The 100 companies’ combined operating profits soared 65% to £1.5billion on the back of revenues totalling £22.3billion.
Long-term debt increased by 90% to £3.2billion from £1.7billion, however.
Kevin Engel, managing partner for Grant Thornton in Scotland, said: “Despite challenging trading conditions caused by the global oil and gas downturn, which has contributed to a drop in exports, Scotland’s limited businesses have shown remarkable entrepreneurship and resilience, and helped generate a dynamic and vibrant economy.
“Our research suggests food and drink is clearly the top sector in Scotland 2015, with strong results in all areas from operating profit to employee numbers.
“Another industry that faced similar challenges to that of the oil and gas industry is property and construction. Following a year in recovery mode, our research shows the sector performing strongly.”
A separate report from London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) indicates nearly eight in 10 of the fastest growing UK companies have headquarters outside London, while Scottish firms are increasing revenues the fastest.
Its 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain report found firms are expanding at an average of 50% a year, and that 78% of the most rapidly growing firms are based outside the English capital.
Scottish companies are fastest growing with 83% annual average revenue growth, according to analysis by LSEG.
Outside London, Greater Manchester is the top area as home to 36 companies with Leeds and Aberdeen next on 16 each.