These Are The Fastest Growing Businesses In The UK Right Now

New data from business insurance provider Protectivity shows more people setting up practical and creative businesses as the UK moves towards 2026. The data comes from insurance applications made between 2024 and 2025 and tracks which types of work people are choosing when they register a new business.

Reformer Pilates instructors recorded the biggest year on year increase. Applications went up 948%, according to Protectivity. The growth links to demand for small group exercise led by qualified instructors, often run from studios rather than large gyms.

Artists working in painting, prints and drawings recorded growth of 238%. Protectivity says many of these businesses trade online, at local markets or through commissions, making it easier to start trading without high set up costs.

Cleaning services also feature near the top. Multi purpose cleaning businesses went up 201%, while carpet and upholstery cleaners went up 170%. These services rely on regular bookings from households and small workplaces.

The full top ten also includes cake making and home baking at 198%, craft businesses at 169%, martial arts at 167%, kickboxing at 159%, leatherwork at 153% and boxercise at 135%. Protectivity says these businesses often grow from skills people already use outside paid work.

How Does This Link To Self Employment Levels Across The UK?

Protectivity’s data reflects official records showing more people working for themselves again. Sole proprietorships account for 56% of all UK businesses, according to government data.

The Inter Departmental Business Register recorded 73,450 new businesses added during the third quarter of 2025 alone. This steady flow shows continued interest in self employment.

Professional, scientific and technical services account for 15.3% of registered businesses, based on official statistics. That group remains the largest overall category.

Insurance applications tell a different story about growth speed. Protectivity’s data shows faster increases among service based and creative businesses that often operate at neighbourhood level.

At category level, cleaning businesses recorded growth of 185%. Craft businesses recorded 97%. Nail technicians and make up artists recorded 63%, according to Protectivity.

Why Are People Choosing These Types Of Businesses?

Research referenced by Protectivity shows that independence matters to new business owners. Being their own boss motivates 66% of men and 62% of women, based on that research.

Flexible working hours matter more to women. The same research shows 63% of women value flexibility, compared with 41% of men. Many of the fastest growing businesses allow owners to choose when and how they work.

Many businesses begin as side projects. Protectivity says people often start trading casually, then register formally once work becomes regular.

Fitness classes, cleaning services and creative trades rely on repeat bookings and personal reputation. Advertising budgets tend to stay small, with most work coming through local networks.

Start up costs also stay lower than many office based businesses. Equipment, training and insurance usually cost less than long leases or staff wages.

What Does Running A Creative Business Look Like Day To Day?

Amy Stringer is a real life example. The Leeds based jeweller and ceramicist marks ten years of running her own business this year. She makes jewellery and ceramics and also runs workshops.

Amy says she began by making work she enjoyed and selling pieces to support herself. As interest in handmade goods grew, her business grew too.

Workshops now account for a large share of her income. They attract people who want practical skills and time away from screens.

Running a business also brings pressure. Amy talks about managing marketing, accounts and paperwork alongside creative work.

Protectivity also shared comments from Chris, who said many people now choose self directed work because it fits family life and personal priorities. He said flexibility, personal service and local demand continue to guide how people earn a living across the UK.

Commenting on the findings, he said: “Together, these trends point to a broader shift in the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape. Low barrier to entry businesses, often run by sole traders or small teams, are playing an increasingly prominent role. Their appeal lies in flexible working patterns, relatively low start-up costs and the ability to adapt quickly to changing consumer demand.

“Cleaning services, for example, benefit from consistent, ongoing demand, while craft and beauty businesses are being fuelled by the rise of e-commerce and social media, enabling micro-businesses to reach wide audiences with minimal overheads.”