Manchester VS Leicester

Manchester is the larger business hub with 98,153 active companies, compared to 42,383 in Leicester. 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

Manchester
Active98,153
Total116,352
2020s Growth72.2%
Oldest Co.1871
Leicester
Active42,383
Total48,841
2020s Growth65.9%
Oldest Co.1885

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
98,153
42,383
Total Registered
116,352
48,841
Dissolved Companies
18,199
6,458
2020s Growth Rate
722%
659%
ManchesterLeicester

Company Formation by Decade

Manchester
Pre-1990
2,361
1990s
2,106
2000s
8,176
2010s
32,829
2020s
70,880
Leicester
Pre-1990
903
1990s
983
2000s
3,791
2010s
15,235
2020s
27,929

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Manchester or Leicester?

Manchester has 98,153 active companies compared to 42,383 in Leicester — 55,770 more.

Which is growing faster, Manchester or Leicester?

Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (72.2%) compared to Leicester (65.9%).

What industries do Manchester and Leicester have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Manchester is uniquely strong in Dormant Company, while Leicester stands out in Freight transport by road.