Overview
The economic landscape of Doncaster is characterised by a strong presence in construction, retail trade, and professional services. With 102,052 employees and a notable 7.8% growth, the region demonstrates a robust employment market. The rise of internet platforms and analytics services among the top sectors indicates a shift towards digitalisation. However, the gender gap in company leadership persists, with a lower percentage of female founders and directors.
Employment and Business Growth
- Total Employees: Doncaster has a total of 102,052 employees. A significant 7.8% growth in employment showcases a thriving job market.
- Top Sectors with Employment Growth: The sectors experiencing the most growth are internet platforms, professional services for consumers, analytics, distribution, and automotive. This indicates a diversification and modernisation of Doncaster’s economy.
Sector Dynamics
- Top Sectors by Number of Companies: The dominant sectors are Construction (14.23%), Retail Trade (13.75%), Professional Services (10.5%), Transportation (10.21%), and Administrative Services (9.38%). This diverse industrial base contributes to the city’s economic resilience.
- New Company Growth: 6,002 new companies have been established in the last two years, contributing to a total of 17,744 companies. This indicates a dynamic and entrepreneurial business environment.
Business Continuity
- Company Cessations: There is no specific data on company cessations, but the high number of new companies suggests a vibrant, though potentially competitive, market.
- Scaleups: Doncaster has 88 scaleup companies, signifying the potential for significant economic impact through these rapidly growing businesses.
Gender Diversity in Leadership
- Founders’ Gender: 10.98% of founders are female, while 89.02% are male. This indicates a substantial gender gap in entrepreneurship.
- Directors’ Gender: 24.86% of directors are female compared to 71.77% male, showing a similar gender disparity in corporate leadership.
Intellectual and Innovative Activity
- Patent Owners and Grantees: With 247 patent owners and 10 grantees, Doncaster exhibits a moderate level of innovative activity.
- Fundraising and IPOs: The region has witnessed 9 fundraisings and 1 IPO, indicating an emerging interest in investment and public market participation.
Conclusion
Doncaster’s economy is experiencing robust growth, particularly in sectors aligning with modern technological trends. The high number of new companies suggests a fertile ground for startups, although the gender gap in leadership roles remains a challenge. The presence of scaleups and innovative companies points towards an evolving economic landscape with potential for future growth.