LEADING figures gathered to celebrate York's post-pandemic revival as the city's top-performing businesses were revealed.

The Press joined its partners, York St John University and City of York Council, to launch the fifth edition of The York Top 100 Businesses annual report.

The definitive list of York's most significant businesses uses an algorithm created by York St John Business School, taking into account performance indicators such as turnover, profit, growth and staff numbers.

At the launch, sponsored by Azets, Professor Karen Bryan, vice chancellor at York St John University, said the challenges of the past two years for York's economy and communities had also showcased resilience and adaptability.

"We have come together with a shared purpose to support one another and the city we call home."

Vice Chancellor of York St John University, Prof Karen Bryan, with the award for Hartleys Food Holdings Picture: Frank Dwyer

Prof Bryan said the city was beginning to thrive again, with many of York's top 100 businesses contributing to its recovery, while York St John remained committed to investing in the local economy through its academic and support services.

"With 70 per cent of our students remaining in the the city and region after graduation we are creating a direct talent pipeline with local businesses."

Cllr Andrew Waller, executive member for economy and strategic planning, told guests: "Great things happen in York - we just don't shout about it enough so it is nice to have a celebration of achievement."

He added: "York has a rich and diverse business landscape with lots of cutting-edge, world-class companies, including many sectors, including a growing food and drink manufacturing sector, innovative rail tech sector a creative cultural sector, hospitality and tourism which is second to none, and a huge growth in biotech and biomedical sectors.

"These are great stories for a great city."