The Top 100 Private Companies

After years of decline, the Top 100 Private Companies in NH collectively saw revenue rise above pre-recession levels. Between 2008 and 2010, revenue for the Private 100 dropped from $40.5 billion to $37.2 billion. But in 2011, their revenue climbed to $48 billion-a 29 percent increase.

And while only 33 percent of the Private 100 grew revenue between 2007 and 2009, 81 percent saw revenue increase between 2009 and 2011.

On the surface, construction appears to be bouncing back after being hit particularly hard by the recession. Five of the 20 fastest growing companies on the list are construction or engineering firms, including North Branch Construction in Concord, the fastest growing company on the Private 100 list. However, President Kenneth Holmes says that growth is just building revenue back to pre-recession levels. And, he says, this year the firm and industry will see flattening revenue as federal funds for infrastructure projects has dried up and the private sector remains cautious.

The Top 100 by the Numbers

Collectively, they employ 37,317 people full time, with 14,867 in NH.

49% of the companies are family businesses, and all but six have increased revenue during the past three years.

11% have more than 1,000 employees; 31% have fewer than 100.

Only 8% are led by women.

11% are more than 100 years old; 3% are less than 10 years old.

A dozen companies are making their debut on the Private 100.

Who's doing well? Of the top 20 fastest growing companies on the Private 100, half are manufacturers.

So how do companies make the list? Each year, Business NH Magazine invites thousands of companies to participate in our annual survey, which ranks businesses by 2011 gross revenue. We profile the Five Fastest growing on the list, as well as 10 Companies to Watch, those without enough revenue to make the list, but experiencing rapid growth (see page 52). (Growth rates are based on three-year average annual revenue growth.)  If your company belongs on this list, please contact Editor Matt Mowry at 603-626-6354 ext. 214 or email mmowry@BusinessNHmagazine.com.

Over the next 15 days, we will feature the five fastest growing companies of the top 100 private companies. And those 10 companies that did not make the list who are experiencing growth.

To meet top level executives of the Top 100 Private Companies, join us at the Private 100 Reception in Concord on October 15 in Concord. Visit EventsNH.com for details.