Manchester dwarfs Exeter in scale with 98,695 active companies versus 11,955 — a 8.3x 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.
Manchester has 98,695 active companies compared to 11,955 in Exeter — 86,740 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) 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, Dormant Company, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Manchester is uniquely strong in Non-specialised wholesale trade and Other human health activities, while Exeter stands out in Development of building projects and Information technology consultancy activities.