# The 50 largest private equity-backed companies in the United Kingdom
Tamtam tracks 202 private equity-backed companies headquartered in the United Kingdom. This list ranks the 50 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by Asda, Morrisons and Finastra. Their median headcount is 2,223. Half of them were founded in 1989 or later. The most common headquarters are London (26) and Bristol (2).
These are some of the largest private equity-backed companies in the United Kingdom, spanning diverse sectors from retail to financial services and software development. Among them are major retailers like Asda, offering career opportunities across various sectors, and Morrisons, which focuses on fresh food and community partnerships. Financial services are represented by Finastra, providing technology solutions for global financial services, and Acuity Analytics, which offers bespoke research and analytics. Software development companies include The Access Group, specializing in business management software, and Sophos, a cybersecurity leader.
A notable pattern among these companies is the concentration of headquarters in London, which hosts Mace (construction), Thomas Cook (travel), Grant Thornton UK (accounting), V.Group (maritime transportation), Domestic & General (financial services), and SLR Consulting (environmental services). Beyond London, other significant headquarters locations include Leeds (Asda), Bradford (Morrisons), Loughborough (The Access Group), and Abingdon (Sophos), indicating a broad distribution across the UK.
π¬π§ United Kingdom Β· 50 companies Β· Updated Nov 15, 2026
| # | Company | Industry | Headquarters | Employees | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [Asda](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/asda) (asda.jobs)
Large retail business providing diverse career opportunities across shop floors, doorsteps, and technology sectors to improve customer experiences through store and online innovations. | Retail | π¬π§ Leeds | 52,216 | |
| 2 | [Morrisons](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/morrisons) (morrisons.jobs)
A team-focused company providing shopping trips, career opportunities, fresh food, and great value for customers, while prioritizing community partnerships and employee well-being | Retail | π¬π§ Bradford | 34,861 | |
| 3 | [Finastra](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/finastra) (finastra.com)
Focusing on OPEN Collaboration & Finance, Finastra provides innovative technology solutions for global financial services, promoting financial inclusion and diversity | Financial Services | π¬π§ Paddington | 12,499 | 2017 |
| 4 | [Mace](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/mace) (macegroup.com)
Delivery consultancy and construction expertise for iconic buildings, data centres, life science, social infrastructure, and regeneration projects worldwide. | Construction | π¬π§ London | 9,872 | 1990 |
| 5 | [Acuity Analytics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/acuity-analytics) (acuityanalytics.com)
Provides bespoke research, analytics, and technology solutions to financial services, helping institutions operate efficiently and unlock human capital to drive revenue. | Financial Services | π¬π§ London | 7,619 | 2003 |
| 6 | [The Access Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-access-group) (theaccessgroup.com)
It provides business management software solutions for small and mid-sized organizations, enhancing productivity through innovative cloud and AI technologies. | Software Development | π¬π§ Loughborough | 7,368 | |
| 7 | [Thomas Cook](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/thomas-cook) (thomascook.com)
A newly revived online travel business under Fosun Tourism Group, focused on providing easy holiday booking solutions with a team of travel and tech experts | Travel Arrangements | π¬π§ London | 6,149 | 1841 |
| 8 | [Grant Thornton UK](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/grant-thornton-uk) (grantthornton.co.uk)
Providing assurance, tax, and advisory services through a global network, combining local insight with flexible, client-focused solutions. | Accounting | π¬π§ London | 5,972 | 1904 |
| 9 | [V.Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/v-group) (vgrouplimited.com)
A dedicated partner advancing maritime activities and innovations | Maritime Transportation | π¬π§ London | 5,889 | 1984 |
| 10 | [Stonegate Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/stonegate-group) (careers.stonegatecareers.co.uk)
A leading UK pub company with 4,500+ sites nationwide, offering unforgettable experiences, career development, and a focus on teamwork and success | Hospitality | π¬π§ Shirley | 5,799 | 2010 |
| 11 | [Sophos](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sophos) (sophos.com)
A global cybersecurity leader offering advanced solutions, managed services, and a broad portfolio of technologies to protect organizations from cyberattacks worldwide | Software Development | π¬π§ Abingdon | 5,498 | 1985 |
| 12 | [Holland & Barrett](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/holland-and-barrett) (hollandandbarrett.com)
Retailer specializing in vitamins, supplements, specialist foods, sports nutrition, and ethical beauty products with expert personalized customer advice. | Retail Health and Personal Care Products | π¬π§ Nuneaton | 4,733 | 1870 |
| 13 | [SLR Consulting](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/slr-consulting) (slrconsulting.com)
Providing expert sustainability consulting and advisory services globally, partnering with clients to solve complex environmental challenges collaboratively. | Environmental Services | π¬π§ London | 4,311 | 1994 |
| 14 | [Domestic & General](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/domestic-and-general) (domesticandgeneral.com)
Protection, repair, and care for household appliances including fridges, washing machines, TVs, and boilers, ensuring reliable home operation. | Financial Services | π¬π§ London | 3,376 | 1912 |
| 15 | [Accelya](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/accelya) (w3.accelya.com)
A global software provider for airlines, empowering over 200 airlines with innovative solutions to drive growth, enhance customer experience, and control retailing operations | IT Services and IT Consulting | π¬π§ Windsor | 3,080 | 1976 |
| 16 | [IRIS Software Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/iris-software-group) (iris.co.uk)
Leading provider of integrated software solutions and services to help organizations make better business decisions, minimize admin, and improve efficiency across various industries. | Software Development | π¬π§ Slough | 3,041 | |
| 17 | [PIB Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/pib-group) (pibgroup.co.uk)
A specialist insurance solutions provider in the UK market and beyond, offering commercial and personal lines products through acquisitions and expertise | Insurance | π¬π§ London | 3,023 | 2015 |
| 18 | [AllSaints](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/allsaints) (careers.allsaints.com)
A customer-centric global team creating cool clothes, curating all aspects of style in-house Agile, responsible, and focused on customer satisfaction | Retail Apparel and Fashion | π¬π§ London | 2,923 | 1994 |
| 19 | [HBK - Hottinger Brüel & Kjær](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hbk-hottinger-bruel-and-kjaer) (hbkworld.com)
Provides comprehensive testing and data analysis solutions in sound, vibration, reliability, durability, propulsion efficiency, and weighing to accelerate product development. | Industrial Machinery Manufacturing | π¬π§ London | 2,750 | 1942 |
| 20 | [Azzurri Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/azzurri-group) (azzurrigroup.co.uk)
Hospitality investment platform operating multiple Italian and Mexican restaurant brands, serving millions of meals with focus on quality and experience. | Hospitality | π¬π§ London | 2,533 | 2015 |
| 21 | [BCA UK](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/bca-uk) (bca.co.uk)
Specialises in multi-channel auctions of used cars, vans, and trucks across Europe, offering online and physical sales with logistics support. | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | π¬π§ Hook | 2,440 | |
| 22 | [Search Recruitment Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/search-recruitment-group) (searchrecruitmentgroup.com)
Global leader in recruitment solutions with decades of experience, offering strategic expertise, honesty, and integrity Committed to empowering clients and candidates for success | Staffing and Recruiting | π¬π§ Glasgow | 2,310 | 2018 |
| 23 | [Waterstones](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/waterstones) (waterstones.com)
Leading high street bookseller in UK and Ireland with almost 300 bookshops, offering author events, book clubs, and online platform | Retail | π¬π§ London | 2,284 | 1982 |
| 24 | [Hyve Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hyve-group) (hyve.group)
Organizing in-person events, online platforms, and facilitated meetings to connect industry ecosystems and foster community growth and progress. | Events Services | π¬π§ London | 2,246 | 1991 |
| 25 | [Loungers ltd](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/loungers-ltd) (loungers.co.uk)
A multi-brand hospitality company offering all-day dining experiences in neighborhood cafΓ©-bars and bar and dining concepts with a focus on community and nostalgia | Hospitality | π¬π§ Bristol | 2,223 | 2002 |
| 26 | [S&W](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/s-and-w) (swgroup.com)
Financial and professional services firm specializing in wealth management, accountancy, tax advisory, and investment management solutions. | Professional Services | π¬π§ London | 2,218 | 1881 |
| 27 | [Dechra](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/dechra) (dechra.com)
Development, manufacture, and sales of high-quality veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products supporting veterinarians worldwide with training and information. | Pharmaceutical Manufacturing | π¬π§ Northwich | 1,902 | 1997 |
| 28 | [Ocorian](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ocorian) (ocorian.com)
A global provider of fund administration, capital markets, corporate, and compliance solutions for various clients, offering expertise, trust, and scale | Financial Services | π¬π§ London | 1,846 | 1971 |
| 29 | [The Compleat Food Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-compleat-food-group) (compleatfood.com)
Supplier of branded and own-label pastry, bakery, party food, plant-based products, and continental meats to UK retailers and foodservice. | Food and Beverage Manufacturing | π¬π§ London | 1,830 | 2021 |
| 30 | [GTA](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/gta) (discover.hotelbeds.com)
Connects travel providers with travel sellers globally via technology platform, increasing reach, revenue, and yield. Offers hotels, transfers, and activities. | Retail Motor Vehicles | π¬π§ London | 1,800 | 1975 |
| 31 | [ghd](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ghd-london) (ghdhair.com)
A stylish and innovative company known for its acclaimed range of hair stylers, focused on growth, innovation, and global expansion | Retail | π¬π§ London | 1,772 | 2001 |
| 32 | [Arco: Experts In Safety](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/arco-experts-in-safety) (arco.co.uk)
Providing integrated safety products and services with expert knowledge to help businesses manage and reduce workplace risks effectively. | Business Supplies & Equipment | π¬π§ Hull | 1,748 | 1884 |
| 33 | [Rubix](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/rubix) (rubix.com)
A leading supplier of industrial maintenance and repair products, bringing together expertise from multiple brands to serve over 220,000 customers in Europe | Manufacturing | π¬π§ London | 1,737 | 1920 |
| 34 | [Misys](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/misys) (finastra.com)
It combines Misys and D+H to form a leading fintech company, Finastra, now the third largest in the world. | Financial Services | π¬π§ London | 1,535 | 1979 |
| 35 | [Zellis](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/zellis) (zellis.com)
A leading provider of payroll, HR, and managed services in the UK and Ireland for large companies, serving millions of employees annually | Software Development | π¬π§ Bristol | 1,534 | 1963 |
| 36 | [Euromoney Institutional Investor](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/euromoney-institutional-investor) (delinian.com)
Global B2B information-services business providing actionable data, analysis, intelligence, and market participant access across multiple international markets. | Information Services | π¬π§ London | 1,487 | |
| 37 | [Synamedia](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/synamedia) (synamedia.com)
A trusted provider of video protection, enrichment, and delivery solutions, offering cloud products for launching, monetizing, and scaling services quickly | Broadcast Media Production and Distribution | π¬π§ Weybridge | 1,437 | 2018 |
| 38 | [Kurt Geiger](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kurt-geiger) (bit.ly)
A London-based footwear and accessories retailer promoting creativity, kindness, diversity, and inclusion through statement styles and kindness-driven initiatives globally | Retail | π¬π§ London | 1,435 | 1963 |
| 39 | [Hovis Ltd](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hovis-ltd) (hovis.co.uk)
Production and distribution of bread and bakery products across the UK and Ireland, operating multiple bakeries and a flour mill. | Food and Beverage Manufacturing | π¬π§ High Wycombe | 1,401 | 1886 |
| 40 | [Ideagen](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ideagen) (ideagen.com)
Provides best-in-class software and regulatory expertise to highly regulated industries to manage risk and ensure compliance. | Software Development | π¬π§ Ruddington | 1,386 | 2000 |
| 41 | [George at Asda](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/george-at-asda) (asda.jobs)
A leading UK fashion retailer focusing on value, online and in-store presence, international sales, and a commitment to creating a joyful work environment | Retail Apparel and Fashion | π¬π§ Lutterworth | 1,355 | 1989 |
| 42 | [Boldyn Networks](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/boldyn-networks) (mobilitie.com)
A US-based telecommunications infrastructure company providing wireless solutions for robust coverage and 5G services at large venues and cities | Telecommunications | π¬π§ London | 1,286 | 2005 |
| 43 | [Isio](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/isio) (isio.com)
A leading financial services company challenging traditional thinking in pensions, benefits, and investment advice by providing expertise and innovative solutions | Financial Services | π¬π§ London | 1,250 | 2020 |
| 44 | [Score Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/score-group) (score-group.com)
Provides advanced engineering technology services in valve and emissions management, gas turbines, surface technologies, energy, defence, and aerospace. | Oil and Gas | π¬π§ Peterhead | 1,229 | 1982 |
| 45 | [BPP University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/bpp-university) (bpp.com)
University specializing in business, law, accounting, finance, and health degrees with strong professional focus and career preparation. | Higher Education | π¬π§ Uk | 1,224 | |
| 46 | [Miller Insurance Services LLP](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/miller-insurance-services-llp) (miller-insurance.com)
Leading independent insurance broking firm providing specialist (re)insurance services internationally, focusing on integrity, expertise, and client trust. | Insurance | π¬π§ London | 1,191 | 1902 |
| 47 | [Dobbies Garden Centres](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/dobbies-garden-centres) (dobbies.com)
Retail garden centres offering plants, branded products, concessions, restaurants, and community events to promote year-round garden living. | Retail | π¬π§ Lasswade | 1,181 | 1865 |
| 48 | [AnyVan](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/anyvan) (anyvan.com)
AnyVan uses technology and innovation to improve delivery and moving processes, providing efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly services to millions of customers | Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage | π¬π§ London | 1,177 | 2009 |
| 49 | [Cobham](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/cobham) (cobham.com)
A provider of innovative solutions in various industries, specializing in technology, defense, and communication systems, ensuring reliability and performance | Defense and Space Manufacturing | π¬π§ Christchurch | 1,171 | |
| 50 | [Euro Garages Ltd](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/euro-garages-ltd) (eg.group)
Operating 341 UK forecourts with fuel, convenience stores, and branded food outlets including Starbucks, Subway, and Greggβs bakeries. | Retail | π¬π§ Blackburn | 1,136 | 2001 |
## How this list is built
Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 15, 2026.
## More company lists in the United Kingdom
- [The largest companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/largest-companies-united-kingdom) (36,548)
- [Multinational companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/multinational-companies-united-kingdom) (7,458)
- [Financial services firms in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-firms-united-kingdom) (3,711)
- [Financial Services companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-companies-united-kingdom) (3,696)
- [Retail chains in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-chains-united-kingdom) (3,289)
- [Professional services firms in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/professional-services-firms-united-kingdom) (2,706)
- [Software Development companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/software-development-companies-united-kingdom) (2,600)
- [Manufacturers in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/manufacturers-united-kingdom) (2,159)
- [Companies with in-house R&D in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-united-kingdom) (1,930)
- [IT Services and IT Consulting companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-and-it-consulting-companies-united-kingdom) (1,722)
- [Retail companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-companies-united-kingdom) (1,596)
- [IT services companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-companies-united-kingdom) (1,583)
- [Hotel and hospitality groups in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hospitality-groups-united-kingdom) (1,461)
- [Companies with a mobile app in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/companies-with-mobile-app-united-kingdom) (1,411)
- [Consulting firms in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/consulting-firms-united-kingdom) (1,298)
- [E-commerce companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/ecommerce-companies-united-kingdom) (1,246)
- [Hardware manufacturers in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hardware-companies-united-kingdom) (1,239)
- [Family-owned companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/family-owned-companies-united-kingdom) (1,224)
- [Hospitality companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hospitality-companies-united-kingdom) (1,204)
- [Critical infrastructure operators in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/critical-infrastructure-operators-united-kingdom) (1,195)
- [Wellness and Fitness Services companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/wellness-and-fitness-services-companies-united-kingdom) (1,151)
- [Retail Apparel and Fashion companies in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-apparel-and-fashion-companies-united-kingdom) (1,085)
- [Subscription businesses in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/subscription-businesses-united-kingdom) (1,077)
- [Distributors and wholesalers in the United Kingdom](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/distributors-and-wholesalers-united-kingdom) (1,061)
## The same list elsewhere in United Kingdom
- [Private equity-backed companies in London](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/private-equity-backed-companies-london) (88)
## The same list elsewhere
- [Private equity-backed companies in the world](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/private-equity-backed-companies-in-the-world) (1,497)
- [Private equity-backed companies in Europe](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/private-equity-backed-companies-in-europe) (710)
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Source: https://www.tamtam.ai/l/private-equity-backed-companies-united-kingdom