Bristol is the larger business hub with 54,999 active companies, compared to 23,069 in Southampton. 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 Development of building projects.
Bristol has 54,999 active companies compared to 23,069 in Southampton — 31,930 more.
Southampton has a higher 2020s company formation rate (58.2%) compared to Bristol (52.5%).
Both cities share these top industries: Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Bristol is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Dormant Company, while Southampton stands out in Freight transport by road and Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet.