Scotland’s top private businesses grew employment, increased sales and substantially improved profits in the last 12 months.
The new Scotland Ltd report by accountants Grant Thornton said the country’s leading 100 private firms grew total revenue by 9%.
They also increased employment by 12% and boosted profits by almost a third (32%). Forty of the top 100 firms recorded double-digit profit growth.
Their operating profit hit £882 million from total revenues of £20.6 billion and a workforce of 103,807 people. They also collectively decreased their long-term debt position by 38% to £1.7bn, whilst increasing their cash held by 11% to £1.2bn.
The report was compiled from the accounts of the private businesses, using a measure of turnover and profits.
The top-rated company was Arnold Clark Automobiles.
Those with Tayside, Fife and Central Scotland bases on the list include Alexander Dennis of Falkirk (fifth); DC Thomson of Dundee (10th); CJ Lang & Son of Dundee (31st); James Donaldson & Sons of Markinch (33rd), and Burntisland Fabrications (BiFab) (38th).
Kevin Engel of Grant Thornton, said: “Our analysis highlights a common thread in Scottish industry resilience.
“The Top 100 Ltd companies may operate across a variety of sectors but they have achieved growth in some of the toughest trading conditions.
“The overall picture is of increased demand, productivity and confidence. A dynamic, agile and entrepreneurial spirit has created robust, hungry and confident businesses.”
The increased profile of Scotland over the last 12 months created “a window of opportunity for Scottish businesses,” and he added: “The achievements of the nation’s leading firms should be commended”.
Business Minister Fergus Ewing said: “This survey underlines the confidence that exists amongst Scottish businesses, and builds on recent surveys from the Office of National Statistics and Bank of Scotland which highlight a strengthening labour market and strong economic growth.”