Manchester is the larger business hub with 98,153 active companies, compared to 33,989 in Sheffield. 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.
Manchester has 98,153 active companies compared to 33,989 in Sheffield — 64,164 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (72.2%) compared to Sheffield (60.5%).
Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Dormant Company, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management. Manchester is uniquely strong in Other service activities n.e.c., while Sheffield stands out in Development of building projects.