Portsmouth makes the ranking of top UK cities for independent businesses

Running an independent business often means long hours, tight margins, and constant competition with big-name chains. For many owners, success depends not just on passion and hard work, but also on being in a city where local businesses are supported by the community, footfall is steady, and new ventures have a real chance to survive.

Running an independent business often means long hours, tight margins, and constant competition with big-name chains. For many owners, success depends not just on passion and hard work, but also on being in a city where local businesses are supported by the community, footfall is steady, and new ventures have a real chance to survive.

To reveal where independent businesses are most likely to thrive, Karas Plating analysed data across UK cities, examining the share of independent businesses using Google Maps business listings alongside official business demography statistics from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), including business birth rates, death rates, and five-year survival rates.

Portsmouth ranks twentieth overall among the UK’s top cities for independent businesses. 22.7% of businesses in the city are independent, reflecting a strong local enterprise culture. The city offers opportunities for new ventures, with business births at 14.5% and business deaths at 11.7%, providing a dynamic yet manageable environment for entrepreneurs. Portsmouth’s historic maritime heritage, seaside appeal, and accessible commercial spaces make it an attractive location for cafés, boutiques, studios, and other independent ventures.

Compared to other UK cities, Portsmouth stands out for combining a high share of independent businesses with a community-focused customer base. While its five-year survival rate is lower than some cities, the city rewards entrepreneurs who are adaptive, creative, and willing to engage closely with the local community. Independent business owners can benefit from city initiatives, footfall from tourism, and loyal local customers to grow their ventures sustainably.

There are a few other pieces of data worth highlighting for prospective independent business owners. Portsmouth’s five-year survival rate sits at 29.9%, suggesting that careful planning, community engagement, and resilience are essential for long-term success. Combined with strong business births and moderate business deaths, the city provides an environment where independent ventures can test new ideas, refine their offering, and grow steadily over time.

“Running an independent business is always a mix of passion, creativity, and risk,” says Alan Pennington, Managing Director at Karas Plating. “If you’re starting out, focus on building something that reflects your vision and connects with your community. Invest time in understanding your customers, finding the right location, and creating a space people want to return to, these are the things that make a business last.”

“Don’t be afraid to lean on local networks and support systems. Whether it’s joining business groups, collaborating with other independents, or tapping into mentorship opportunities, connecting with the right people can help you navigate challenges and grow more sustainably.”

“Finally, remember that small steps matter,” the spokesperson adds. “Pay attention to cash flow, test new ideas, and listen to your customers. Independent businesses aren’t just about immediate success, they’re about building resilience, character, and a lasting presence in your community. Those who focus on these fundamentals give themselves the best chance to thrive.”

List of the best UK cities for independent businesses: