Overview
Liverpool’s economic landscape is marked by a diverse range of sectors. The city employs 294,788 individuals, indicating significant economic activity. The data shows a 10.61% growth in employment, highlighting a dynamic job market. Key sectors include wholesale and retail trade, construction, and professional activities, with emerging growth in technology-related fields like mobile apps and internet platforms. The presence of 112 scaleups and 395 patent owners suggests an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Employment and Business Growth
- Total Employees: 294,788. This number reflects Liverpool’s strong economic base, with a 10.61% growth in employment indicating a robust and expanding job market.
- Top Sectors by Company Numbers: Wholesale/retail trade (5,451 companies), Construction (4,480), and Professional activities (4,444) dominate, showcasing the city’s diverse economic structure.
- Sectors with Most Growth: Mobile apps, internet platforms, and analytics tools are among the fastest-growing sectors, reflecting Liverpool’s increasing focus on digital and tech industries.
- Number of IPOs: 0. This suggests that while there is business growth, companies may be opting for private funding or are in earlier stages of development.
Business Continuity
- Company Cessations: 5,447 companies ceased operations, indicating challenges in certain sectors, possibly due to market shifts or economic pressures.
- Number of New Companies (Last 2 Years): 6,756, showing a vibrant startup environment and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Number of SMEs: 24,790, forming the backbone of Liverpool’s economy and showcasing the strength of small and medium-sized enterprises.
- Exporters and Foreign Parent Companies: With 391 exporters and 681 companies with foreign parentage, Liverpool demonstrates significant international business engagement.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Number of Patent Owners: 395, indicating a strong focus on innovation and intellectual property.
- Number of Scaleups: 112, showing the city’s ability to support growing businesses effectively.
- Number of Fundraisings: 45, reflecting active investment in local businesses.
Diversity in Leadership
- Gender Distribution among Founders: 11.31% female, 88.10% male. This points to a gender gap in entrepreneurship.
- Gender Distribution among Directors: 24.41% female, 70.86% male, suggesting similar trends in corporate leadership roles.
- Age Distribution of Directors: A diverse age range, with notable representation in the 30-60 age group, indicating a mix of experience and new perspectives in leadership.
Business Challenges
- Number of Companies Ceased: 5,447, highlighting the challenges faced by businesses, possibly due to economic shifts or market competition.
- Number of Dead Companies: 5,447, mirroring the number of ceased companies, suggesting closures are a significant challenge.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s economic landscape is vibrant and diverse, marked by strong employment growth, a focus on innovation, and a dynamic startup ecosystem. However, challenges such as company closures and gender disparity in leadership roles need attention. The city’s economic health is bolstered by its strong SME sector and international business ties, indicating a resilient and globally connected economy.