Birmingham is the larger business hub with 88,677 active companies, compared to 21,876 in Bradford. 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 Buying and selling of own real estate and Freight transport by road.
Birmingham has 88,677 active companies compared to 21,876 in Bradford — 66,801 more.
Bradford has a higher 2020s company formation rate (76.5%) compared to Birmingham (72.8%).
Both cities share these top industries: Buying and selling of own real estate, Freight transport by road, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c., Other human health activities. Birmingham is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., while Bradford stands out in Sale of used cars and light motor vehicles.