The North East firms that top the UK's 100 most profitable private businesses

Six firms from across the North East have made it onto a list of the UK's top 100 most profitable businesses over the past two years.

Quantum Pharmaceutical, based in County Durham, ranked highest among the North East companies on the E2E Profit 100 List, compiled by E2E and The Independent, coming in at number nine. The list was topped by petrol forecourt operator EG Group. Following Quantum Pharmaceutical at number 25 was Newcastle-based On Hire Limited, a Winn Group business specialising in providing replacement vehicles and repair management solutions to victims of road traffic accidents.

Teesside-based Bulkhaul, a company specialising in liquid, gas, and dry bulk transportation, appeared at number 43 on the list. This was followed by the Hewitson Group, a mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering specialist based in Teesside and Tyneside.

Gainford Care Homes Limited, based in Chester-le-Street, featured at number 80, while Gateshead-based industrial equipment hire firm Gap Group closed the list. The E2E Profit 100, which ranks businesses based on percentage profit growth across their two most recent filing periods, highlights the UK's most successful privately owned companies that have achieved profits of more than £5m over the past two years.

Organisers say the list showcases companies that have demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence and resilience in a challenging economic landscape, reports Business Live.

Shalini Khemka, the founder of E2E, praised the remarkable achievement of the 100 profiled companies in their list: "Congratulations to the 100 companies featured on the E2E Profit 100 List. Achieving consistent profit growth at such a high level is no small feat. It's a testament to the dedication, innovation, and hard work of business leaders and their teams. At E2E, we take pride in celebrating entrepreneurial excellence and look forward to championing these successes in the years to come."

Andrew Morley, chief revenue officer at The Independent, also commended the businesses: "The E2E Profit 100 List sheds light on the incredible resilience and innovation of UK businesses. Their contributions to their industries and the economy, especially during turbulent times, are nothing short of remarkable. We are thrilled to celebrate their accomplishments as part of E2E's mission to support and spotlight entrepreneurial success."