Indian-Owned Companies in UK Reach Record Levels as Trade Ties Expand
The number of Indian-owned companies operating in the United Kingdom increased significantly in 2026, according to the latest India Meets Britain Tracker. The report also recorded growth in turnover, employment and bilateral trade between India and the UK during 2025.
Indian-Owned Businesses Expand Presence in the UK
The number of Indian-owned companies operating in the UK rose nearly 60 per cent year-on-year to 1,912 in 2026, while their combined turnover reached 105.77 billion pounds, according to the latest India Meets Britain Tracker.
The annual report, led by Grant Thornton and launched in London by Indian High Commissioner P Kumaran, recorded a substantial increase from 1,197 firms with a turnover of 72.14 billion pounds in 2025.
Employment generated by these companies also increased to 203,549 from 126,720 a year earlier.
Bilateral Trade Rises Following CETA Signing
The report noted that bilateral trade between India and the UK grew 11.7 per cent year-on-year to 47.4 billion pounds in 2025, the year the two countries signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
Speaking at the launch, P Kumaran said the India-UK relationship is increasingly driven by economic opportunities, with India contributing scale, growth and talent, while the UK provides innovation, finance and expertise.
India-UK Corridor Broadens Across Key Sectors
Grant Thornton Partner Anuj Chande said the India-UK corridor is evolving into a strategic partnership covering technology, clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
He added that CETA is expected to accelerate trade and investment flows further once implemented.
According to the report, 66 Indian companies recorded annual revenue growth of at least 10 per cent, with an average growth rate of 61 per cent.
Technology Sector Leads Indian Business Activity
Technology, media and telecom remained the dominant sectors for Indian businesses operating in the UK, followed by manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.
London continued to be the preferred destination, hosting 38 per cent of Indian firms, although growth was also reported in other regions.
The report identified rising operational costs, regulatory complexities and competition as key challenges. At the same time, it noted that the UK's stable legal and financial systems and its focus on clean energy and digital technology continue to attract Indian investment.
Key Findings from the India Meets Britain Tracker
- Indian-owned companies in the UK rose to 1,912 in 2026
- Combined turnover reached 105.77 billion pounds
- Employment increased to 203,549
- Bilateral trade grew 11.7 per cent year-on-year to 47.4 billion pounds in 2025
- 66 companies recorded annual revenue growth of at least 10 per cent
- Average revenue growth among these firms stood at 61 per cent
- Technology, media and telecom remained the leading sectors