Bristol VS Derby

Bristol is the larger business hub with 54,569 active companies, compared to 21,002 in Derby. While size differs, comparing their industry profiles, formation trends, and growth rates reveals what makes each city's business environment distinctive. Both cities share strength in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.

Key Figures

Bristol
Active54,569
Total64,037
2020s Growth48.6%
Oldest Co.1871
Derby
Active21,002
Total25,292
2020s Growth57.6%
Oldest Co.1867

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
54,569
21,002
Total Registered
64,037
25,292
Dissolved Companies
4,108
1,812
2020s Growth Rate
486%
576%
BristolDerby

Company Formation by Decade

Bristol
Pre-1990
2,558
1990s
2,159
2000s
7,241
2010s
19,970
2020s
31,353
Derby
Pre-1990
467
1990s
545
2000s
2,245
2010s
7,060
2020s
14,592

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Bristol or Derby?

Bristol has 54,569 active companies compared to 21,002 in Derby — 33,567 more.

Which is growing faster, Bristol or Derby?

Derby has a higher 2020s company formation rate (57.6%) compared to Bristol (48.6%).

What industries do Bristol and Derby have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management. Bristol is uniquely strong in Business and domestic software development and Dormant Company, while Derby stands out in Freight transport by road and Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet.