As is shown the list above, Sunderland has success stories in a variety of industries. Undoubtedly one of the largest sectors in the city is manufacturing. The country's largest car manufacturing base is here, and the city is renowned for automobile research as well as aerospace manufacturing.

The financial and customer services sectors are also incredibly important to Sunderland's economy, thanks in part to the loyal work population on offer here. Software and data technology are also seeing great growth, with innovative enterprises working in niches as varied as gaming and online customer service.