Derby has cemented its reputation as the city of innovation for transport, with major businesses such as Toyota, Alstom and Rolls-Royce leading the latest Top 200 Businesses in Derby and Derbyshire list.
These latest rankings also reveal a strong showing for the property and construction sector, with Miller Homes, Bowmer & Kirkland and Bloor Investments – the parent company for businesses including Bloor Homes and Triumph Motorcycles – all securing places in the Top 10.
Compiled by researchers from the University of Derby’s International Business School, the Top 200 2025 listing ranks all active and private sector businesses in the area by turnover. The report highlights key drivers of the local economy, identifies high-growth sectors, and celebrates home-grown success stories.
All data is based on company annual reports from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.
The top ten companies in the list are:
- Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) Limited
- Bloor Investments Limited
- Breedon Group PLC
- Rolls-Royce PLC
- Bowmer and Kirkland Limited
- Motorpoint Group PLC
- Alstom Engineering and Services Limited
- Miller Homes Group (Finco) PLC
- Refresco Beverages UK Limited & Refresco Drinks UK Limited
- Healthnet Homecare (UK) Limited
David Thompson, assistant head of discipline and senior lecturer in accounting at Derby International Business School, who led on the report, said: “It is fantastic to see such strong, thriving businesses – many of which the University works closely with – featured in the Top 200 list.
“A unique combination of strategic location, advanced industries, skilled workforce and strong support infrastructure make Derby and Derbyshire an ideal place for businesses with global reach.
“The city and county are home to some of the world’s most successful businesses across a diverse range of sectors, and those listed are at the forefront of innovation and contribute to the regional and global economy.”
Several well-known local firms have made significant gains this year. Loram UK, a Derby-based leader in digital railway track maintenance and infrastructure management, is one of the biggest risers in the list, having climbed 48 places from 198th to 150th.
Lomas Distribution has leapt from 105th to 60th with Quest Global Engineering (up 41 places) and Noon Foods (up 38) also climbing the list.
Beloved regional brands, including Birds Bakery, Don Amott Leisure, Denby, and Morley Hayes, continue to feature prominently, demonstrating the strength of Derbyshire’s independent business community.
