Manchester is the larger business hub with 97,213 active companies, compared to 33,178 in Sheffield. 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 97,213 active companies compared to 33,178 in Sheffield — 64,035 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) compared to Sheffield (54.8%).
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 Sheffield stands out in Development of building projects and Other human health activities.