Nottingham VS Preston

Nottingham is the larger business hub with 42,339 active companies, compared to 19,679 in Preston. 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.

Key Figures

Nottingham
Active42,339
Total51,788
2020s Growth55.7%
Oldest Co.1865
Preston
Active19,679
Total24,271
2020s Growth54.6%
Oldest Co.1893

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
42,339
19,679
Total Registered
51,788
24,271
Dissolved Companies
4,028
1,866
2020s Growth Rate
557%
546%
NottinghamPreston

Company Formation by Decade

Nottingham
Pre-1990
1,299
1990s
1,335
2000s
4,923
2010s
14,768
2020s
28,807
Preston
Pre-1990
504
1990s
596
2000s
2,590
2010s
7,130
2020s
13,160

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Nottingham or Preston?

Nottingham has 42,339 active companies compared to 19,679 in Preston — 22,660 more.

Which is growing faster, Nottingham or Preston?

Nottingham has a higher 2020s company formation rate (55.7%) compared to Preston (54.6%).

What industries do Nottingham and Preston have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Dormant Company, Management consultancy activities other than financial management. Nottingham is uniquely strong in Information technology consultancy activities, while Preston stands out in Other service activities n.e.c..