Manchester is the larger business hub with 98,695 active companies, compared to 48,382 in Leeds. 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.
Manchester has 98,695 active companies compared to 48,382 in Leeds — 50,313 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) 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, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c., Other human health activities. Manchester is uniquely strong in Dormant Company and Non-specialised wholesale trade, while Leeds stands out in Development of building projects and Information technology consultancy activities.