The North West of England continues to prove a hub for innovation and enterprise, with new data finding that 33,000 new businesses were launched in the region throughout 2023. Despite economic challenges, figures from the Office of National Statistics compiled by Marks & Clerk shows that the region continues to lead on business creation across the North and Midlands, cementing the region’s status as a dynamic engine of growth outside London.
Greater Manchester remains a central driver of the region’s business growth, contributing over 14,500 new enterprises in 2023, while Manchester city alone saw the birth of 3,630 new businesses, reflecting the area’s resilience and strong support ecosystem for start-ups, creatives and tech-driven ventures.
While the North West’s business birth rate remains nationally competitive at 11.6%, second only to London at 12.6%, long-term performance is more difficult. Only 30% of businesses survive to their fifth year, lagging behind the national average of 40%.
