Manchester dwarfs Preston in scale with 97,213 active companies versus 19,344 — a 5.0x difference. Despite the size gap, both cities play distinct roles in the UK economy. Preston 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 97,213 active companies compared to 19,344 in Preston — 77,869 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) compared to Preston (54.9%).
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 Business and domestic software development and Non-specialised wholesale trade, while Preston stands out in Development of building projects and Other human health activities.