Leeds is the larger business hub with 48,280 active companies, compared to 20,977 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.
Leeds has 48,280 active companies compared to 20,977 in Derby — 27,303 more.
Derby has a higher 2020s company formation rate (57.5%) compared to Leeds (56.0%).
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. Leeds is uniquely strong in Other human health activities, while Derby stands out in Freight transport by road.