Celebrating Yorkshire’s Business Success – The Ward Hadaway Fastest 50 Awards 2025

The highly acclaimed awards recognise and reward the region’s businesses that have achieved exceptional growth. Rapid Response Telecoms took the top spot as the overall fastest-growing business, demonstrating outstanding expansion in the telecoms sector.

Against a backdrop of economic and regulatory challenges, each of the Fastest 50 businesses have demonstrated resilience, innovation and ambition, reinforcing Yorkshire’s reputation as a hub for business excellence.

This year’s keynote speaker was Mark Roberts, entrepreneur, angel investor and co-founder of Beer Hawk and PerfectDraft, two businesses that have transformed the online beer retail and home-draft market. Beer Hawk, based in Wetherby, specialises in curated beer selections and delivery, while PerfectDraft is a home beer dispenser that has revolutionised the at-home drinking experience.

Sharing insights from his own scale-up journey, Mark urged companies to maintain a start-up mindset for as long as possible. Many high-growth companies introduce too many processes too quickly, stifling the innovation needed for continued growth. He believes this is a lesson even large organisations can learn from.

“Success in business isn’t about standing still. It’s about constantly adapting, learning and creating value,” said Mark, as he addressed the audience. “The businesses in this room today are proof that Yorkshire has an entrepreneurial spirit that is second to none. You don’t need to be in London or a global capital to grow something remarkable – Yorkshire’s businesses are proving that every single day. They are shaping industries, creating opportunities and putting Yorkshire on the map as a vital business ecosystem both nationally and globally.”

This year’s overall winner, as well as the fastest-growing medium-sized business, was Rapid Response Telecoms. The Barnsley-based company, which provides critical telecoms infrastructure services, has expanded significantly in recent years. With a growing team, the company has played a pivotal role in delivering connectivity solutions to businesses and communities, supporting the UK’s wider digital transformation.

The large business category was won by Park Homes UK, a care operator providing high-quality residential and nursing care across sites in England and Scotland. Headquartered in Bingley, Bradford, the company has delivered rapid expansion in a sector facing rising demand and complex regulatory pressures. Its strong leadership and commitment to resident-centred care have underpinned its growth, supported by continued investment in people, properties and service excellence.

Project Furniture, based in Halifax, was named the fastest-growing small business. The company specialises in the procurement of furniture and interior solutions. Known for its bespoke interior design services and commitment to quality, the company has built a strong reputation across various sectors including healthcare and education. Their impressive growth trajectory is driven by a dedication to excellence and a comprehensive, turnkey approach to client projects.

Emma Digby, Executive Partner in Ward Hadaway’s Leeds office, praised the ambition and innovation of Yorkshire’s fastest-growing businesses. “This year’s winners highlight the depth and diversity of Yorkshire’s business community. From telecoms to manufacturing, we’re seeing companies innovate, scale and create jobs at an impressive rate.

“Growth on this scale doesn’t happen by chance, it takes bold leadership, vision and sheer determination to keep moving forward. These businesses have had to navigate complex challenges, from supply chain disruptions to rising costs, yet they continue to excel. Their achievements are not only about financial success but about the impact they have on the local economy, job creation and industry transformation. Congratulations to all this year’s winners and finalists.”

The combined turnover of this year’s Fastest 50 companies exceeded £3 billion, a notable lift from £2.5 billion last year. Nine firms also appeared in last year’s list, with 19 having featured in previous Fastest 50 rankings. John Good & Sons, a Hull-based logistics and supply chain business, made its sixth appearance on the list, marking a long history of consistent growth and industry leadership.

The total increase in turnover reached over the last three years stands at £1.68 billion, up from £1.58 billion in 2024, a welcome sign of Yorkshire’s business resilience.

The diverse nature of this year’s winners also reflects the strength of the region’s economy. Construction and manufacturing remain dominant, with eight construction firms and seven manufacturers making the list. Other significant contributors include retail, technology and recruitment.

With a total workforce of nearly 8,000 people, up from 4,742 three years ago, the Fastest 50 businesses are not only growing in revenue but also creating employment opportunities across the region. As Yorkshire continues to attract investment and develop as a centre for innovation and enterprise, it is cementing its position as a powerhouse of economic growth, resilience and opportunity.