A NEW league table has revealed the Dorset companies which are among the fastest international growers in the south.

BDO has identified the mid-market companies that are defying uncertainty by expanding overseas.

Nearly half the companies among the top 20 performers in the central south are new to the list.

Arbinder Chatwal, partner at BDO, said: “Our central south campaign continues to gain momentum and showcases real, tangible success in our region. The mid-market is the engine room for growth in the UK – increasing turnover, employment and trade overseas.

“However, although there are many opportunities to be grasped from trading internationally, of course it is not without risk. That is why it is so important to undertake careful preparation before launching into new markets abroad.

“I wouldn’t say expanding overseas has got any easier, but nor is it any harder. Businesses need to take calculated risks, put feet on the ground, go in with their eyes wide open, and crucially ensure they have a long-term exit strategy.”

In Dorset, the list includes:

  • AGI UK. Based at Willis Way in Poole, Aeronautical & General Instruments Ltd was founded in 1951 and makes instruments and systems for the defence and civil markets across the world.
  • Blakell Europlacer. Based at Factory Road on Upton Industrial Estate, the company makes surface mount technology, for mounting components on circuit boards, and “pick and place” robots for putting components in the right place.
  • Ceuta Group. Based on Bournemouth’s Richmond Hill, it offers marketing for consumer brands, specialising in health and personal care and in food and drink, employing more than 450 people through 12 specialist businesses internationally.
  • Eims Global. Based in Dean Park Crescent, Bournemouth, it provides sales and marketing for the IT industry, working with clients including BT and Samsung.
  • FB Ammonite. Better known as Farrow & Ball, the Ferndown-headquartered business is Dorset’s globally-recognised maker of luxury wallpapers and paints.
  • Marden Edwards. Based at Nimrod Way on East Dorset Trade Park, it is a world leader in developing and making fold wrapping and packing machinery.
  • The National Lighting Company Limited. Based at Cabot Lane, Creekmoor, the parent company of Poole Lighting is a leading manufacturer of lighting products.