Leicester VS Derby

Leicester is the larger business hub with 42,383 active companies, compared to 20,965 in Derby. 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

Leicester
Active42,383
Total48,841
2020s Growth65.9%
Oldest Co.1885
Derby
Active20,965
Total23,477
2020s Growth62.7%
Oldest Co.1867

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
42,383
20,965
Total Registered
48,841
23,477
Dissolved Companies
6,458
2,512
2020s Growth Rate
659%
627%
LeicesterDerby

Company Formation by Decade

Leicester
Pre-1990
903
1990s
983
2000s
3,791
2010s
15,235
2020s
27,929
Derby
Pre-1990
468
1990s
537
2000s
2,230
2010s
7,087
2020s
13,155

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Leicester or Derby?

Leicester has 42,383 active companies compared to 20,965 in Derby — 21,418 more.

Which is growing faster, Leicester or Derby?

Leicester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (65.9%) compared to Derby (62.7%).

What industries do Leicester and Derby have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Freight transport by road, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management. Leicester is uniquely strong in Other human health activities and Other service activities n.e.c., while Derby stands out in Development of building projects and Residents property management.