Manchester dwarfs Brighton in scale with 97,213 active companies versus 16,447 — a 5.9x difference. Despite the size gap, both cities play distinct roles in the UK economy. Brighton 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 Business and domestic software development.
Manchester has 97,213 active companies compared to 16,447 in Brighton — 80,766 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) compared to Brighton (47.6%).
Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Business and domestic software development, Buying and selling of own real estate, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Manchester is uniquely strong in Dormant Company and Non-specialised wholesale trade, while Brighton stands out in Development of building projects and Information technology consultancy activities.