15 Biggest Companies that Started in Manchester, UK

Manchester, renowned for its industrial heritage, has transformed into a modern hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. From fashion and technology to property development and e-commerce, Manchester-based companies are making significant impacts both nationally and globally. This article highlights 15 prominent companies originating from Manchester, their visionary founders, and their estimated net worths.

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1. INEOS Group

• Founder: Sir Jim Ratcliffe
• Industry: Petrochemicals, Energy, Sports
• Net Worth: $16.7 billion (as of May 2025)
• Overview: Founded in 1998, INEOS has grown into one of the world’s largest chemical producers. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a Failsworth native, has diversified the company’s portfolio, including a significant stake in Manchester United Football Club.

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2. Betfred

• Founders: Fred and Peter Done
• Industry: Bookmaking, Gambling
• Net Worth: £2.915 billion
• Overview: Established in Salford in 1967, Betfred has expanded to over 1,600 betting shops across the UK. The Done brothers have also ventured into employment services with Peninsula Business Services.

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3. THG (The Hut Group)

• Founders: Matthew Moulding and John Gallemore
• Industry: E-commerce, Beauty, Nutrition
• Net Worth: £700 million
• Overview: Launched in 2004, THG has become a global e-commerce powerhouse, owning brands like Myprotein and Lookfantastic. Despite market challenges, Moulding remains a significant figure in the tech and retail sectors.

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4. AO World

• Founder: John Roberts
• Industry: Online Retail (Appliances)
• Net Worth: £210 million
• Overview: Founded in Bolton in 2000, AO.com has revolutionized the online appliance market. Roberts is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly supporting youth initiatives.

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5. Castore

• Founders: Tom and Phil Beahon
• Industry: Sportswear
• Net Worth: £334 million
• Overview: Established in 2015, Castore has quickly risen in the sportswear industry, securing partnerships with teams like McLaren F1 and England Cricket. The brand is recognized for its high-performance apparel.

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6. Represent

• Founders: George and Michael Heaton
• Industry: Fashion (Streetwear)
• Net Worth: £122 million
• Overview: Launched in 2012, Represent has become a leading luxury streetwear brand, gaining popularity among celebrities and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

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7. P.Louise

• Founder: Paige Louise Williams
• Industry: Cosmetics
• Net Worth: £100 million
• Overview: Starting with a single eye base product, P.Louise has grown into a global cosmetics brand, known for its vibrant makeup products and educational academy.

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8. Missguided

• Founder: Nitin Passi
• Industry: Fashion (Fast Fashion)
• Net Worth: £250 million
• Overview: Founded in 2009, Missguided quickly became a favorite among young consumers, offering trendy and affordable fashion online.

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9. MCR Property Group

• Founder: Aneel Mussarat
• Industry: Real Estate Development
• Net Worth: £208 million
• Overview: Since its inception in 1989, MCR Property Group has developed numerous residential and commercial projects across the UK, contributing significantly to urban regeneration.

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10. Emerson Group

• Founder: Peter Emerson Jones
• Industry: Property Development
• Net Worth: £1.286 billion
• Overview: Established in 1959, Emerson Group is one of the UK’s largest privately-owned property development companies, with projects spanning residential, commercial, and leisure sectors.

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11. B&M Retail

• Founders: Simon, Bobby, and Robin Arora
• Industry: Retail (Discount Stores)
• Net Worth: £2.682 billion
• Overview: Acquired in 2004, B&M has expanded rapidly, offering a wide range of discounted products across the UK and Europe.

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12. JD Sports

• Founders: John Wardle and David Makin
• Industry: Retail (Sports Fashion)
• Net Worth: £250 million
• Overview: Headquartered in Bury, JD Sports has grown into a global leader in sports fashion retail, with a strong presence in Europe, Asia, and the US.

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13. Auto Trader Group

• Founder: John Madejski
• Industry: Automotive (Digital Marketplace)
• Net Worth: £1.5 billion (Company Valuation)
• Overview: Based in Manchester, Auto Trader is the UK’s largest digital automotive marketplace, connecting buyers and sellers nationwide.

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14. Co-operative Group

• Founders: Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers
• Industry: Retail, Insurance, Legal Services
• Net Worth: £11.5 billion (Group Revenue)
• Overview: Founded in Rochdale in 1844, the Co-operative Group has its headquarters in Manchester and operates across various sectors, emphasizing ethical practices and community values.

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15. Renold plc

• Founder: Hans Renold
• Industry: Engineering (Industrial Chains and Gears)
• Net Worth: £160 million (Market Valuation)
• Overview: Established in 1864, Renold is a leading manufacturer of industrial chains and gears, supplying products to various industries worldwide.

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Manchester continues to be a breeding ground for innovation, entrepreneurship, and business excellence. These companies and their founders exemplify the city’s dynamic spirit and its significant role in the UK’s economic landscape.

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