Cheshire-based Dragonpass crowned Fastest 50 winner
16th June, 2025
Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre was the backdrop once again for the Ward Hadaway North West Fastest 50 Awards last Friday, now in their 12th year, as the region’s most ambitious and fast-growing companies were celebrated in style.
Hale-based Dragonpass International was named the fastest growing overall business of 2025.
Held in partnership with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, the awards recognise the 50 privately-owned businesses in the North West that have achieved the highest average annual turnover growth over the last three years. Winners were announced across three categories – small, medium and large – with one company named the overall fastest growing business of the year.
Liz Bottrill, Executive Partner in Ward Hadaway’s Manchester office, addressed the audience: “This year’s Fastest 50 showcases the ambition and depth of talent we have across the North West. These businesses have delivered exceptional growth through times of disruption, uncertainty and change. From tech innovators to construction firms and manufacturers, they’re proving that this region has both the resilience and the ingenuity to lead the way nationally and globally.”
2025’s Fastest 50 companies represent a combined turnover of nearly £4.2bn, an increase of almost £1bn from last year’s list. The average turnover growth across all 50 was 68.83% and the overall winner, Dragonpass International achieved a record-breaking average growth of 261.77% – the highest figure ever recorded in the history of the North West Fastest 50.
Sectors represented ranged from construction and leisure to manufacturing and financial services, highlighting the region’s diversity and economic strength. This year’s list also features 12 returning companies, including one business, Sapphire Accounting, making its fourth consecutive appearance.
Delivering this year’s keynote speech was Paul Fox, Managing Director of Fox Brothers, a highly regarded family-run business known for its work in aggregates, haulage and site preparation. Paul said: “It was a real honour to be asked to speak at this year’s Fastest 50. Our business has been part of the North West for generations and, while we’ve grown significantly in recent years, that growth hasn’t come without challenges. My message to others on a similar journey is simple: have a clear vision, surround yourself with the best people and stay focused on what you know. Growth brings pressure as well as opportunity and it’s often the unseen hurdles that test you most. Events like this remind us how important it is to share those experiences and to recognise the hard work behind every success.”
Dragonpass International, whose digital platform connects travellers with airport lounges, dining and concierge services worldwide, was a double winner, winning the overall fastest growing business of the year award and the large business category.
Mark Koch, Chairman of Dragonpass International, said: “We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition. Dragonpass has always been about resilience, innovation and people. We’ve built this business from the ground up with a strong belief in what we do and a relentless focus on moving forward, even when things are tough. As a Manchester-based company, it means a lot to be part of the North West Fastest 50 – this region is full of talent and determination and we’re honoured to be recognised alongside so many outstanding businesses.”
In the medium-sized business category, the award went to Bilyana Golf, a Macclesfield-based travel company that has carved out a niche in the luxury golf holiday market. With a loyal client base and strong reputation for service, Bilyana organises tailored trips to Europe’s top golf destinations, combining premium courses with hand-picked accommodation. Their North West roots and family-run ethos remain central to their success as demand grows from both domestic and international markets.
Berna Bayindir, Director at Bilyana Golf, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to win this award – it came as a real surprise. The credit goes to our amazing team here in the UK and in Turkey, who go above and beyond to look after every client. We’re a close-knit team and it genuinely feels like a family. This recognition reflects the care, service and word-of-mouth reputation that have driven our growth.”
The small business category was won by Rochcare, a family-run care group providing residential, dementia and specialist care across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. Its continued growth reflects a long-standing commitment to quality care, community values and the dedication of its team.
Athar Mahmood, Director at Rochcare, said: “Winning this award means a great deal to us as a team and as a family business. For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. Our success is built on the dedication of our staff, who treat every resident with the respect and kindness they deserve. Running a care service isn’t easy but staying true to our values has helped us grow and make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Chris Fletcher, President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, added: “We’re proud to once again support the Ward Hadaway Fastest 50 – it’s become a standout event on the North West business calendar. It’s fantastic to see such a diverse range of companies being recognised for their drive, resilience and achievements. As we move beyond the challenges of recent years, it’s vital that we continue to champion businesses that are pushing forward, creating opportunities and making a real impact across our region.”
The Ward Hadaway Fastest 50 2025 Awards are objectively compiled using data sourced from Companies House and ranked by the biggest average annual growth in turnover.
To view the full list of 2025’s Ward Hadaway North West Fastest 50 businesses, please click below:
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