Menlo Electric Tops FT1000
Poland’s Menlo Electric Tops FT1000 as Europe’s Fastest-Growing Company
Warsaw-based solar supplier leads Financial Times’ 2025 ranking with explosive growth amid Europe’s economic challenges. Menlo Electric, a Polish distributor of photovoltaic panels and solar technology, has been named Europe’s fastest-growing company in the FT1000 list for 2025, published by the Financial Times in collaboration with Statista. The Warsaw-based company achieved a staggering compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 830.8% between 2020 and 2023, securing the top position in the ranking that evaluates businesses across Europe based on their revenue growth.
Growth Against All Odds
This year’s FT1000 comes at a time of subdued economic recovery following the pandemic and inflationary pressures triggered by geopolitical shocks, including the war in Ukraine. Despite the turbulence, the list showcases exceptional performance across a range of sectors—from tech to marketing, construction, and renewable energy. Menlo Electric’s success story reflects the accelerated push toward renewable energy in the EU. As the bloc transitions toward more sustainable energy sources, Menlo leveraged its position as a key supplier of Chinese-manufactured solar panels to serve growing demand across European markets. The company is also actively expanding into new regions to diversify its portfolio amid a volatile global supply chain. Other high-ranking firms include Kempower of Finland, which produces EV charging solutions and secured 8th place with a CAGR of 343.5%.
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A Snapshot of Europe’s Business Landscape
The FT1000 report highlights the changing face of Europe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The tech and software sector remains a stronghold, making up 20% of listed companies—rising from 189 in 2024 to 200 this year. Meanwhile, fast-growing companies in construction, fintech, energy, and marketing show that innovation is far from being the exclusive domain of software startups. Professor Mark Hart from the University of Warwick Business School noted:
“We mainly talk about scale-ups as young tech firms. This survey shows that is utter nonsense. Growth is happening across sectors—from wholesale and engineering to consultancy.”
The report also sheds light on geographic distribution. Italy, Germany, France, and the UK dominate the list, but analysts argue that this reflects the fragmented nature of Europe’s internal market rather than a lack of entrepreneurial spirit elsewhere. For example, smaller economies like Estonia face more regulatory hurdles when scaling across borders. As the EU works to streamline cross-border business and boost investment in future-focused industries, Menlo Electric’s success offers a blueprint for what’s possible when market demand meets bold strategy and a resilient execution model.
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Article based on reporting by the Financial Times (FT1000, 2025 Edition).
