Telecoms firm secures coveted top 50 place

A Bath-based telecoms company has been ranked as one of the fastest-growing hi-tech firms in the South West.

Internet service provider Gradwell, which is run from headquarters off Lower Bristol Road, has been listed fourth in the region and 44th in the national list of business adviser Deloitte's UK Technology Fast 50 Awards programme.

The firm's founder and managing director Peter Gradwell was also named young entrepreneur of the year at the Bath and North East Somerset Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) branch business of the year awards.

Gradwell, which provides internet phone and broadband services to businesses through the UK, also received a commendation in the Most Innovative Company category at the FSB Awards.

It was launched in 1998 and first featured in the Deloitte UK Technology Fast 50 Awards programme in 2005 alongside companies involved in telecommunications and computers to life sciences and semiconductors.

Mr Gradwell, who set up the business while he was at university, said: "We're absolutely delighted to have been ranked in the Deloitte UK Technology Fast 50 list and to be named as one of the top five technology companies in the South West.

"Our success is a result of providing flexible and reliable solutions which meet the needs of small businesses, as well as a dedicated support service to help our customers thrive.

"We also equip companies for the new business environment, allowing people to establish virtual offices and work from anywhere, which is perfect for the increasing numbers of people who are setting up on their own."

The 30-year-old said the latest ranking was a great reward for the hard work of his staff and demonstrated sustained growth over recent years.

Gradwell has expanded from a team of three to more than 40 staff. It now runs with an annual turnover of around £3 million.