Nationwide Autocentres was the highest placed automotive company at 57.

Nationwide Autocentres was one of four automotive companies that were included in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100.

The table results show the fastest growing companies in the UK and bases its results on turnover figures between 2001 and 2004. Nationwide Autocentres saw sales increase by 78% a year.

Car dealer Worcester Carsales was placed at 59. The company has eight dealerships in Worcester, Shropshire and the West Midlands. It sells the Vauxhall, Daewoo, Suzuki and Chrysler Jeep brands.

Hodgson Automotive, the Audi dealer, was placed at 66. The company acquired two new sites in Hitchin and Chlemsford which contributed to its growth.

Prohire, the truck and van leasing company, was placed at 99. Its growth rose when it acquired competitor, Securicor Vehicle Management.

Nationwide Autocentres chief executive, Tom Dunn said: "I fully expect this pattern of growth to continue for many years and we certainly won't be sitting back and resting on our laurels.

“Our next target is to reach 500 outlets by 2010. We are also expecting 2005 to be a record year for us, with projected profits of £6 million plus."

The fastest growing company overall was GHD, the hair products supplier, with 364.90% sales growth from 2001 to 2004.

Rank 2005 Company % annual sales growth 2001-4 2004 sales (£000s) 2001 sales (£000s)
57 Nationwide Autocentres 80.80 56,667 9,589
59 Worcester Car Sales 78.90 42,680 7,454
66 Hodgson Automotive 71.25 60,272 12,001
99 Prohire 55.1 9,634 2,562