Aston Manor Cider has made it on to a prestigious list of the UK’s fastest-growing private companies.

The Midlands-based firm, which is Britain’s largest independent cider maker, has ranked 46th on the 2013 Investec Hot 100 shortlist.

The list commends the success of UK businesses – identifying, in particular, entrepreneurial business management.

The commendation comes weeks after the cider maker scooped a top drinks accolade, having been voted category winner for Own-label Supplier of the Year at The Grocer Gold Awards.

With a new MD, Gordon Johncox, at its helm, 2013 is turning out to be a big – and very successful – year for Aston Manor.

Gordon said: “We are delighted to be recognised as a well-run, entrepreneurial business and I pay particular tribute to the people here for the work they do – many of the team have been here for a long time.

“There have been lots of exciting developments over the last twelve months – including our announcement to plant 1,000 more acres of orchards in coming years – so this praise is testament to the hard work we have put into becoming one of the country’s strongest businesses.”

As well as being in the top 50, the Investec Hot 100 reveals Aston Manor as the second highest ranked business in the Midlands.

“Whilst we are very proud of what we have achieved, we will never rest on our laurels – our customers and consumers generally will not allow that”, said Gordon.

“We do have big plans for the future.

“For instance, we have recently announced our biggest marketing investment to date in support of our Kingstone Press brand.

“We’re particularly excited about our involvement with the Rugby Football League (RFL) which means sponsorship of the Kingstone Press Championships and being an Official Partner of the  England Rugby league team – with the World Cup here in the autumn this is a great time to be part of a growing sport.

“With everything else, and inn what is our 30th Anniversary year it is a really exciting time for us.”

Aston Manor Cider is based in Birmingham, and the business also has orchards and a pressing facility in the Malvern Hills and a major production site in Tiverton.

As well as providing products for major retailers, Aston Manor also produces major brands and award-winning ciders like Kingstone Press, Frosty Jack’s, Malvern Oak and Malvern Gold.

The Hot 100 list is compiled by measuring four-year average annual growth in profitable sales turnover.

For the complete rundown and analysis, visit Real Business.