Businesses for Sale in North of England

Businesses for Sale in North of England

The North of England remains a significant area of the UK, encompassing the regions of the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber. With a population of around 15 million, it is home to 17 of the UK's 69 cities, including major urban centres like Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle. While the region's industrial heritage continues to shape its identity, the economic landscape has evolved considerably since the decline of heavy industries.

In 2024, the North of England's economy presents a mixed picture. Some areas are experiencing growth, particularly in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and green energy. However, economic disparities persist, with only a few northern economies outperforming the UK average. Forecasts suggest that between 2024 and 2028, only seven northern local authority districts are expected to outpace the UK in terms of GVA growth, down from 21 in the 2016-2019 period.

The North-South divide remains a challenge, with three of the five slowest-growing areas from 2024 to 2027 expected to be in the North of England. However, there are pockets of strong performance, particularly in urban centres like Manchester, which has seen balanced growth reflecting an increase in high-value, knowledge economy workers.

Efforts to address regional disparities continue, with initiatives such as the Northern Powerhouse and increased infrastructure spending. The public sector, service economy, and growing technology hubs in cities like Manchester and Leeds are driving economic development in parts of the region.

The North of England has seen an M&A focus on sectors aligned with its evolving economic landscape. Key mergers and acquisition sectors in 2024 include advanced manufacturing, technology (particularly in areas like fintech and healthtech), renewable energy, and professional services. The region's growing tech ecosystem, especially in Manchester and Leeds, has attracted significant investment and acquisition interest from both domestic and international buyers.