A report by the Financial Times has listed the top 100 companies to work for in the EU.

100 Best Workplaces in the EU reveals seven leisure and tourism related companies as receiving the ultimate staff accolade, including Astronic International of Austria, manufacturer of casino games and slot machines; drinks manufacturer Diageo of Italy; fast-food retailer McDonald's Danmark and outdoor and sports clothing manufacturer Patagonia, based in France.

The UK is represented by the British arm of alcoholic beverage giant, Bacardi-Martini, and Flight Centre, the Australian owned UK travel agency business.

In Ireland, Hilton Hotels Ireland is highly regarded by its employees.

Analysis of the table shows Germany as having the highest number of favoured workplaces in the EU, followed by the UK.

A companion survey, 50 Best Workplaces in the UK, revealed Flight Centre at number 6, Bacardi-Martini at 9, the Whitbread Hotel Company at 14 and the TGI Friday's restaurant chain at 31.

A survey of a similar nature by the Sunday Times earlier in the month put Bacardi-Martini at number eight and Whitbread-owned TGI Friday's at 52. Travel Inn, also part of the Whitbread group, appeared in the table at 91. Details: www.ft.com or www.leisureopportunities.co.uk and type 'Whitbread' in the search engine.