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ME+EM
Former advertising executive Clare Hornby founded ME+EM in 2009 with the aim of creating flattering, functional and timeless women’s clothing. The company sells its designs direct-to-consumer through its website as well as 11 stand-alone stores and three concession sites across the UK and US. The company’s growth was supported by a £55m investment from Highland Europe in 2022. The brand’s designs have been worn by celebrities including Kate Middleton and Margot Robbie.
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Dynamic Metals
Dynamic Metals, founded in 2010 by Steve Ambrose, Sam Excell, and Alex Bailey, specialises in sourcing and supplying metals to industries like aerospace, motorsport, and power generation. The company operates from Bedfordshire, where its head office and a 20,000-square-foot distribution centre are located. It also runs its Conversion Centre in Sheffield, which assists clients in sourcing refined metal products from a network of partners. Increased demand for materials such as titanium, stainless steel, and aluminium by both UK and international clients saw sales increase more than 70% to £30.8m in 2023.
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Pretty Lavish
Founded by Samantha and Stephanie Frost in 2013, Pretty Lavish started their company in their Hertfordshire living room, aiming to fill a market gap for affordable, high-quality clothing. Gaining popularity, the company opened its first store in 2017 and thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic by focusing on knitwear and lounge attire. Leveraging Instagram and TikTok, the brand collaborates with influencers to broaden its reach. Pretty Lavish expanded its range to include bridesmaids and curve collections, which are now available at Selfridges, ASOS, and at their Hertfordshire store. In 2023, the brand launched a menswear line and announced plans for international expansion, particularly targeting the US market.
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Cleanology
Cleanology is a commercial cleaning company providing professional office and commercial cleaning services. The company was founded in 1999 by the mother and son team Elisabeth and Dominic Ponniah. Dominic—now chief executive—originally planned to help out his mother with her new business on a short term basis, but stuck with the business as it grew. The company began with a single client and one cleaner but has now expanded to 1,400 employees from 34 countries. Cleanology’s clients include large corporates and royal palaces, with the company offering a range of services across London and other major UK cities. Cleanology’s high-profile customers have helped sales grow from £8.6m in 2021 to £22m in 2023.
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SBFM
SBFM (Sustainable Business Facilities Management) specialises in facilities management and commercial cleaning services. Founder Colin Shute launched SBFM after identifying a need for innovation in the traditional facilities management market. He aimed to leverage technology to enhance the company’s services, which include contract cleaning, pest control, and professional security. In August 2023, the company launched Evolve, an initiative aimed at providing training and job opportunities for disadvantaged groups, including ex-offenders, care leavers, refugees, and the homeless. Its commitment to environmental and social governance has contributed to success, with clients such as PureGym and DPD collaborating to further support and upskill Evolve recruits. This is SBFM’s second appearance in the Growth 100.
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100Green
Doug Stewart entered the newly deregulated, privatised electricity market in 2001 to establish 100Green, which is dedicated to sourcing electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Based in Hertfordshire, 100Green has developed a network of independent generators, generating energy using wind, solar, hydroelectric, and anaerobic digestion—where microorganisms digest organic material to produce biogas. Through these efforts, 100Green has become a supplier of 100% green gas. The company’s commitment to its green ethos has earned a number of awards, including the Which? Eco Provider recognition for three consecutive years.