Zilch, the UK-based payments fintech, has been ranked as the country’s fastest-growing private unicorn in the latest Financial Times FT1000 list, cementing its position as a leader in the sector. The company has also been recognised as the second fastest-growing fintech or financial services firm across Europe.
The ranking highlights Zilch’s remarkable expansion, with a compound annual revenue growth rate exceeding 300% over the past three years. The company, which pioneered the world’s first ad-subsidised payments network (ASPN), has seen its growth trajectory confirmed in multiple independent rankings, including The Sunday Times 100 Tech 2025 published in January.
Sustained Growth and Profitability
Founded in 2018, Zilch has rapidly scaled its operations, doubling its revenue year on year and achieving profitability. In January 2025, the company reported a run-rate revenue of £145 million, having reached six months of operating profit in the previous year.
Philip Belamant, Zilch’s co-founder and CEO, described the ranking as a reflection of the company’s rapid pace of development.
“At Zilch, speed and innovation is core to our DNA. We’ve scaled revenue at an exceptional pace, reaching monthly operating profitability in under four years – a milestone that puts us in rare company,” he said.
He added that the company remains focused on delivering value to its customers, while continuing to push for improvements in the payments sector.
Industry Recognition
Zilch’s success was welcomed by industry figures, including Baroness Gustafsson CBE, the UK’s Minister for Investment, who highlighted the country’s thriving fintech sector.
“The UK has a tech sector worth over $1 trillion and more fintech unicorns than any other market in Europe,” she said. “I’m delighted that British companies, including Zilch, have been recognised among Europe’s fastest-growing firms.”
Brent Hoberman, co-founder and chairman of Founders Forum Group, praised Zilch’s leadership and technological innovation.
“I’ve known Zilch and Philip for a long time, and I’ve seen first-hand how bold leadership and rapid execution can redefine an industry,” he said. “Zilch isn’t just innovating; it is deeply committed to strengthening the UK’s world-leading tech ecosystem and empowering the next generation of founders.”
Policy Influence and Industry Leadership
Beyond its financial growth, Zilch has played a key role in shaping the fintech landscape in the UK. The company co-founded the Unicorn Council for UK FinTech (UCFT) alongside Innovate Finance, aiming to drive policies that support investment and liquidity in the sector.
Philip Belamant, as a founding co-chair of the UCFT, has been actively involved in discussions with the UK government to foster a favourable regulatory environment for fintech firms.
With its sustained growth, profitability, and active role in industry leadership, Zilch continues to shape the UK’s fintech landscape, reinforcing the country’s position as a global hub for financial innovation.
