Glasgow dwarfs Exeter in scale with 67,374 active companies versus 11,955 — a 5.6x difference. Despite the size gap, both cities play distinct roles in the UK economy. Exeter may be smaller, but its industry mix and growth patterns offer unique advantages. Both cities share strength in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.
Glasgow has 67,374 active companies compared to 11,955 in Exeter — 55,419 more.
Glasgow has a higher 2020s company formation rate (56.9%) compared to Exeter (49.9%).
Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c., Other letting and operating of own or leased real estate. Glasgow is uniquely strong in Hairdressing and other beauty treatment and Other, while Exeter stands out in Development of building projects and Dormant Company.