These large companies with in-house R&D in England are primarily major players in the energy, telecommunications, and pharmaceutical sectors. Many are headquartered in London, indicating a concentration of corporate research and development activities in the capital. The list includes global energy companies like Shell and bp, pharmaceutical giants such as GSK and AstraZeneca, and telecommunications providers like Vodafone and BT Group. Other notable companies are Unilever, a global consumer goods business, and Sainsbury's, a leading UK retailer.
A significant number of these companies were founded in the late 19th or early 20th century, including Unilever (1872), Sainsbury's (1869), and bp (1909), suggesting a long-standing tradition of industrial and scientific development. The presence of companies like Shell, bp, and Linde highlights a strong focus on industrial gases and energy transition initiatives.
| # | Company | Employees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 208,511 | ||||
| 2 |
Unileverunilever.com
Global purpose-led business, creating well-loved brands that improve lives worldwide Encourages innovation, fosters growth, and believes in business as a force for good |
145,051 | |||
| 3 |
Vodafonevodafone.com
Using technology to connect people globally, drive social change, and improve lives while emphasizing the importance of humanity and collaboration |
142,740 | |||
| 4 | 92,092 | ||||
| 5 | 85,000 | ||||
| 6 |
Kingfisher plckingfisher.com
International home improvement company with 1,900 stores across Europe Offering products and services for consumers and trade professionals to create better homes |
80,000 | |||
| 7 |
AstraZenecaastrazeneca.com
Pioneering healthcare transformation through the potential of science, impacting individuals, society, and the environment for a healthier future |
79,513 | |||
| 8 | 73,712 | ||||
| 9 |
Sainsbury'ssainsburys.jobs
A leading UK retailer with over 1400 stores and a strong digital presence, offering affordable, greener products and convenient financial services to customers |
68,549 | |||
| 10 | 66,000 | ||||
| 11 |
BAE Systemsbaesystems.com
The company provides advanced technology-led defense, aerospace, and security solutions, with a skilled workforce in over 40 countries, focusing on innovation and long-term commitment |
55,143 | |||
| 12 |
FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobilesstellantis.com
A leading automaker and mobility provider now known as Stellantis, dedicated to creating innovative transportation solutions for the future |
47,673 | |||
| 13 | 46,311 | ||||
| 14 | 43,815 | ||||
| 15 |
Reckittreckitt.com
Focus on providing high-quality hygiene, wellness, and nourishment products, aiming for global access and sustainable growth for healthier communities. |
43,000 | |||
| 16 | 42,697 | ||||
| 17 | 41,040 | ||||
| 18 |
Rio Tintoriotinto.com
Provides essential materials including iron ore, low carbon aluminum, copper, borates, and titanium for various global industries and daily life. |
40,794 | |||
| 19 |
Diageodiageo.com
Global leader in premium drinks, with over 200 brands sold in 180 countries Committed to sustainability, innovation, and excellence worldwide |
34,137 | |||
| 20 |
Rolls-Roycerolls-royce.com
Engineering excellence driving critical technologies for air, sea, and land, powering, protecting, and connecting people worldwide. |
31,649 | |||
| 21 |
Intertekintertek.com
A global provider of Total Quality Assurance solutions, offering Testing, Inspection, Certification services to industries worldwide through a vast network of labs and offices |
31,152 | |||
| 22 |
UK Ministry of Defencegov.uk
The company works to protect the security and interests of the United Kingdom, providing necessary training, equipment, and support for the Armed Forces |
30,901 | |||
| 23 |
CHANELchanel.com
A global leader in luxury product creation, CHANEL offers a wide range of high-end fashion, accessories, fragrances, skincare, and more |
30,431 | |||
| 24 |
Nothingnothing.tech
London-based tech company building smartphones and audio equipment with iconic design and intuitive engineering as an alternative to established industry giants. |
29,964 | |||
| 25 |
Imperial Brands PLCimperialbrandsplc.com
An innovative global FMCG business with inclusive culture, focused on tobacco harm reduction, sustainability, and strong international brands |
29,000 | |||
| 26 |
Boots UKboots.jobs
Leading UK pharmacy-led retailer offering health, beauty products & care services through retail stores, digital platforms, and exclusive brands for over 170 years |
27,869 | |||
| 27 | 26,193 | ||||
| 28 |
Nextcareers.next.co.uk
Leading British retailer specializing in furniture production and technology development while fostering an innovative environment for warehouse teams and software engineering experts. |
26,161 | |||
| 29 |
TechnipFMCtechnipfmc.com
A leading technology provider in the energy industry, offering integrated projects and services to develop energy resources while prioritizing sustainability |
25,875 | |||
| 30 | 25,298 | ||||
| 31 |
Kantarkantar.com
Global leader in marketing data and analytics with deep expertise, innovative technology, and insights to help clients understand people and drive growth worldwide |
24,976 | |||
| 32 | 24,678 | ||||
| 33 |
University of Cambridgecam.ac.uk
A leading research university with 31 Colleges and over 150 departments, faculties, and schools, focused on excellence in education and research |
20,304 | |||
| 34 |
The University of Manchestermanchester.ac.uk
A prestigious university known for teaching excellence, research innovation, and a history of world firsts, with a large global alumni community |
20,294 | |||
| 35 |
Smith+Nephewsmith-nephew.com
Design and manufacture medical technologies supporting healthcare professionals to restore patient health and mobility, enhancing performance and quality of life. |
19,222 | |||
| 36 |
Entainentaingroup.com
A global sports betting and gaming entertainment group with over 25 brands, focused on revolutionizing the industry and promoting diversity |
18,906 | |||
| 37 |
Haleonhaleon.com
The company is focused on improving everyday health through a human-centered approach They promote community guidelines for social media interactions #HelloHaleon |
18,581 | |||
| 38 |
Imperial College Londonimperial.ac.uk
Leading university specializing in science, medicine, engineering, and business, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance knowledge and improve health. |
18,233 | |||
| 39 |
National Gridnationalgrid.com
Operate and develop electricity transmission and distribution networks, natural gas systems, and invest in clean energy infrastructure and technology ventures. |
17,432 | |||
| 40 |
Babcock International Groupbabcockinternational.com
An international defence company providing product and service solutions to enhance customers' capabilities and assets, offering opportunities for professionals to grow |
16,474 | |||
| 41 | 15,616 | ||||
| 42 |
Hitachi Railhitachirail.com
Hitachi Rail provides innovative technology solutions for rail transportation, focusing on sustainability, digital transformation, and reducing carbon emissions globally |
15,527 | |||
| 43 |
Pearsonpearson.com
A global leader in learning, offering digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data to create vibrant and enriching learning experiences worldwide |
13,596 | |||
| 44 |
Smollansmollan.com
Partners with brands and retailers, building solutions that drive growth and create opportunities at the point of purchase. |
13,502 | |||
| 45 |
DS Smithdssmith.com
Innovative packaging solutions, paper products and recycling services using renewable resources to minimize environmental impact while optimizing supply chains for increased profitability. |
13,157 | |||
| 46 |
Greencoregreencore.com
Leading UK convenience food manufacturer supplying supermarkets, retailers, and foodservice with a wide range of products Emphasizes quality, sustainability, and innovation |
13,000 | |||
| 47 |
University of Nottinghamnottingham.ac.uk
A pioneering university with campuses in the UK, China, and Malaysia that aims to transform the lives of its 45,000 students |
12,740 | |||
| 48 |
Finastrafinastra.com
Focusing on OPEN Collaboration & Finance, Finastra provides innovative technology solutions for global financial services, promoting financial inclusion and diversity |
12,499 | |||
| 49 | 12,070 | ||||
| 50 | 11,769 | ||||
Want more companies than this list?This page shows the largest ones only. Connect to Tamtam to see every company that matches, filter by size, industry or growth, and reach their decision-makers. | |||||
| 51 |
Guy's and St Thomas'β NHS Foundation Trustguysandstthomas.nhs.uk
Provides high-quality healthcare services, clinical excellence, research, and community care through multiple hospitals and partnerships in London. |
11,655 | |||
| 52 | 11,505 | ||||
| 53 |
The University of Sheffieldsheffield.ac.uk
A leading Russell Group university with a diverse community of students and staff, advancing research, partnerships, and global impact in various industries |
11,417 | |||
| 54 |
Clarivateclarivate.com
A global information services provider connecting people and organizations to trusted intelligence in Academia & Government, Life Sciences & Healthcare, and Intellectual Property |
11,385 | |||
| 55 | 11,003 | ||||
| 56 |
Deliveroodeliveroo.co.uk
A global food delivery service working with thousands of restaurants and riders to offer top-notch delivery experiences in multiple countries |
10,910 | |||
| 57 |
University of Liverpoolliverpool.ac.uk
A renowned research and innovation center that attracts global students, experts, and partners, shaping lives and the world through collaborations |
10,897 | |||
| 58 |
University of Southamptonsouthampton.ac.uk
A prestigious university in southern England, ranked among the top 100 worldwide and a founding member of the Russell Group |
10,786 | |||
| 59 |
Hikma Pharmaceuticalshikma.com
Manufacturing and supplying over 800 generic, specialty, and branded pharmaceutical products to hospitals, physicians, and pharmacists globally. |
10,626 | |||
| 60 |
Newcastle Universityncl.ac.uk
Research-intensive university, world-class reputation in medicine, science, engineering, social sciences, humanities; providing excellent research-led teaching for high graduate employment rates. |
10,332 | |||
| 61 |
University of Warwickwarwick.ac.uk
Leading university with high academic and research standards, consistently making a global impact through its students, alumni, and staff. |
10,327 | |||
| 62 |
Barclays UKsearch.jobs.barclays
A company focused on helping individuals progress in their lives through financial services, digital innovation, career guidance, and customer-centric approach |
9,925 | |||
| 63 |
Google DeepMinddeepmind.google
Advances artificial intelligence with breakthrough research. Solves complex problems like disease diagnosis, energy saving, and protein folding with safe, ethical AI. |
9,665 | |||
| 64 |
GKN Automotivegknautomotive.com
Development and supply of advanced driveline systems and electric drive technologies powering millions of electrified vehicles worldwide. |
8,992 | |||
| 65 |
GKN Aerospacegknaerospace.com
Designs and manufactures advanced aerospace systems and components for commercial and defense aircraft, focusing on sustainability and innovation. |
8,600 | |||
| 66 |
River Islandcareers.riverisland.com
Family-owned UK fashion brand with over 70 years on the high street, focusing on customer connection, innovation, wellbeing, and sustainability. |
8,600 | |||
| 67 |
Johnson Mattheymatthey.com
development of sustainable technologies supporting energy, chemicals, and automotive sectors to decarbonise, reduce emissions, and enhance sustainability |
8,592 | |||
| 68 | 8,179 | ||||
| 69 |
Pentairpentair.com
This company provides sustainable water solutions for residential, business, and industrial use globally, focusing on improving lives and the environment |
7,711 | |||
| 70 |
IMIimiplc.com
A global engineering company specializing in creating innovative solutions for fluid and motion control applications across various industries, focusing on collaboration and sustainability |
7,637 | |||
| 71 | 7,630 | ||||
| 72 |
Coventry Universitycoventry.ac.uk
A global university focused on creating better futures through innovative teaching, impactful research, and strong industry partnerships worldwide |
7,430 | |||
| 73 |
The Access Grouptheaccessgroup.com
It provides business management software solutions for small and mid-sized organizations, enhancing productivity through innovative cloud and AI technologies. |
7,368 | |||
| 74 |
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trustimperial.nhs.uk
Delivers acute and specialist medical care, conducts biomedical research, and provides clinical education for healthcare professionals across five London hospital sites. |
7,248 | |||
| 75 |
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trustmft.nhs.uk
A large UK acute Trust with nine hospitals providing comprehensive general to highly specialized services to 750,000 people in Manchester and Trafford |
7,150 | |||
| 76 |
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trustleedsth.nhs.uk
One of Europe's largest acute hospital trusts in Leeds, providing healthcare, specialist services, training, research, and pioneering treatments with 20,000 employees |
6,812 | |||
| 77 |
University of Bathbath.ac.uk
A leading UK research university dedicated to making a positive impact on the world through innovation, collaboration with industry, and quality education Located in Bath, UK |
6,784 | |||
| 78 |
Clarksclarks.com
A historic shoe company founded in 1825, known for innovative footwear designs that have evolved with fashion trends worldwide |
6,739 | |||
| 79 |
bet365bet365careers.com
A global leader in online gambling, offering sports betting, in-play betting, live streaming, and a range of online casino games |
6,713 | |||
| 80 |
Sheffield Hallam Universityshu.ac.uk
Higher education institution focusing on student development, impactful research, and strong local and international partnerships for global solutions. |
6,692 | |||
| 81 |
The University of Salfordsalford.ac.uk
Ambitious university with 20,000 students driving local economy and transforming individuals through teaching, research, innovation, and engagement in various fields |
5,864 | |||
| 82 |
Element Materials Technologyelement.com
Global provider of testing, inspection, and certification services ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and sustainability across advanced industrial supply chains. |
5,829 | |||
| 83 |
University of Plymouthplymouth.ac.uk
Modern university with dynamic culture, high student satisfaction, impactful research, innovation, and commitment to global societal and educational advancement. |
5,745 | |||
| 84 |
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trustuclh.nhs.uk
Provides acute and specialist medical services across six London hospitals, focusing on patient care, education, and biomedical research. |
5,737 | |||
| 85 |
Ocado Groupocadogroup.com
Global technology company specializing in online grocery and logistics platforms, enabling partners to excel in ecommerce fulfillment and automation across various industries. |
5,698 | |||
| 86 | 5,696 | ||||
| 87 |
Daviesdavies-group.com
Specialist professional services and technology firm providing risk management, business process optimization, and digital transformation solutions to insurance, regulated, and global businesses |
5,693 | |||
| 88 |
Anglia Ruskin Universityaru.ac.uk
Innovative global university with campuses in UK cities, offering top-ranked courses, industry partnerships, and world-leading research opportunities for students |
5,648 | |||
| 89 |
IONiongroup.com
Innovative company providing trading and workflow automation software to financial institutions, corporations, and governments, empowering decision-making and accelerating processes |
5,591 | |||
| 90 |
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trustuhb.nhs.uk
Operates large teaching hospitals, providing comprehensive medical care, specialist treatments, and trauma services for millions regionally and internationally, with a focus on staff development. |
5,525 | |||
| 91 |
QinetiQqinetiq.com
Integrated global defence and security company focused on mission-led innovation, testing technologies, and enabling customers to deploy enhanced capabilities for protecting lives. |
5,512 | |||
| 92 |
University of Surreysurrey.ac.uk
Provides diverse undergraduate courses, student support, clubs, and safe accommodation in a vibrant campus environment near London. |
5,511 | |||
| 93 |
Sophossophos.com
A global cybersecurity leader offering advanced solutions, managed services, and a broad portfolio of technologies to protect organizations from cyberattacks worldwide |
5,498 | |||
| 94 |
PA Consultingpaconsulting.com
Global teams of strategists, technologists, and experts deliver innovative solutions across industries to drive transformation and lasting client success. |
5,470 | |||
| 95 |
University of Greenwichgre.ac.uk
A multi-faculty university in London and Kent offering high-quality teaching, research, and enterprise opportunities with a focus on student satisfaction |
5,450 | |||
| 96 |
Cancer Research UK (CRUK)cancerresearchuk.org
Dedicated to cancer research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, funded by public donations to improve survival and quality of life. |
5,433 | |||
| 97 |
SS&C GlobeOpssctech.com
Global provider of cloud-based fund services and technology for hedge funds, private equity, and asset managers, offering outsourcing support for operational efficiency and risk reduction |
5,416 | |||
| 98 |
Octopus Energyoctopus.energy
providing affordable, transparent renewable energy solutions with innovative technology and exceptional customer service across multiple countries and sectors |
5,415 | |||
| 99 |
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trustouh.nhs.uk
A world-renowned NHS teaching trust with four hospitals in Oxford, providing clinical services, specialist care, medical education, training, and research |
5,379 | |||
| 100 |
University of Sussexsussex.ac.uk
University offering diverse, research-informed teaching and learning programs with a focus on creativity, intellectual challenge, and inclusivity. |
5,299 | |||
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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 12, 2026.
More company lists in England
- The largest companies in England 32,641
- Retail chains in England 2,917
- Manufacturers in England 1,794
- Retail companies in England 1,415
- Hotel and hospitality groups in England 1,273
- Education providers in England 1,081
- Hardware manufacturers in England 1,067
- Wellness and Fitness Services companies in England 1,032
- Critical infrastructure operators in England 1,029
- Hospitality companies in England 1,025
- Family-owned companies in England 1,014
- Distributors and wholesalers in England 938
- Healthcare providers in England 810
- Insurance companies in England 699
- Consumer goods companies in England 671
- Construction companies in England 667
- Hospitals and Health Care companies in England 649
- Public sector organisations in England 638
- Food and beverage companies in England 635
- Food and Beverage Services companies in England 606
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing companies in England 582
- Corporate groups and holding companies in England 578
- Restaurants companies in England 506
- Energy companies in England 500
The same list elsewhere in United Kingdom
- Companies with in-house R&D in the United Kingdom 1,930
- Companies with in-house R&D in Scotland 94
- Companies with in-house R&D in Wales 38
- Companies with in-house R&D in Northern Ireland 28
- Companies with in-house R&D in London 477
- Companies with in-house R&D in Cambridge 56
- Companies with in-house R&D in Oxford 39
- Companies with in-house R&D in Manchester 34
- Companies with in-house R&D in Nottingham 27