Glasgow dwarfs Exeter in scale with 66,510 active companies versus 12,315 — a 5.4x 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 66,510 active companies compared to 12,315 in Exeter — 54,195 more.
Glasgow has a higher 2020s company formation rate (56.9%) compared to Exeter (49.6%).
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.