Glasgow dwarfs Exeter in scale with 67,891 active companies versus 11,494 — a 5.9x 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 Buying and selling of own real estate and Management consultancy activities other than financial management.
Glasgow has 67,891 active companies compared to 11,494 in Exeter — 56,397 more.
Glasgow has a higher 2020s company formation rate (56.9%) compared to Exeter (50.1%).
Both cities share these top industries: 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, Other service activities n.e.c.. Glasgow is uniquely strong in Hairdressing and other beauty treatment and Information technology consultancy activities, while Exeter stands out in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Development of building projects.