Leading privately-owned companies in central Queensland are predicting a 5 per cent increase in revenue but a downturn in jobs growth over the next year.
The annual BDO Kendalls survey released today shows overall manufacturing, construction and the retail industries are the driving forces behind a 16 per cent growth in revenue for Queensland’s leading privately-owned businesses.
The survey also shows revenue has exceeded $14 billion for the 2006/07 financial year.
The majority of the Q400 are very optimistic about the future and expect almost a 28 per cent growth in revenue and 14 per cent increase in jobs over the next 12 months.
In central Queensland, the construction industry is leading the way with turnover in excess of $432 million.
There are 15 privately-owned companies in Central Queensland in the Q400 which between them employ more than 2,000 workers.
BDO Kendalls partner Rolf Larsen, who collated the Q400 data, said the growth in revenue is reflected in a buoyant Queensland economy.
“The Q400 is a significant force in the Queensland economy and year on year they continue to achieve strong growth,” he said. “The optimism shown by the Q400 is indicative of the opportunities that are presenting themselves in the Queensland market.
The Q400 will be unveiled at a business summit at the Queensland Conservatorium at South Bank today (23 August).
Beef processors and exporters Teys Bros again top the Q400 with Cannon Hill based meat supplier, Australian Country Choice, one of Queensland’s largest owned companies, leapfrogging into second place ahead of Golden Circle.
New companies on the list include Go Talk a leading prepaid Australian telco in 21st position, the Matrix Group (23) and Ingles Shares (35).
Freedom Fuels made the biggest significant leap moving into the top 20 into 13th position from 95 last year.
Biolytix which supplies wastewater treatment systems around the world made the largest gain, jumping 123 places to 247.
Companies are independently ranked by accounting heavyweights BDO Kendalls assessing a range of factors including turnover, full-time staff and assets.