As Manchester grows as a powerhouse of industry, technology, and culture, established entrepreneurs and up-and-coming start-ups continue to view it as a prime location with tremendous opportunity.
However, having a recognisable local presence means more than your business's physical location. It's also about how you are perceived when communicating with customers and is essential for tapping into the thriving Manchester market.
We offer competitively priced 0161 Manchester virtual phone numbers using our Numbers4u platform, ensuring you can get a locally recognised presence without breaking the bank.
Our comprehensive range of call handling services can be customised to suit your business's specific needs. Plus, we provide a free local 0161 number for anyone who signs up.
What Are The Benefits of a Local Manchester Phone Number?
An 0161 Manchester phone number serves as more than just a way for customers to reach you—it’s a powerful tool for establishing trust.
In a city where local ties and community credibility are highly valued, an 0161 number demonstrates that your business is deeply rooted in the Manchester area.
Ready to establish your local presence in Manchester?
Contact us to find out how you can get your 0161 local phone number.
Increase Trust and Credibility - A local number can give potential customers the confidence that they are dealing with a local business. This familiarity is particularly important for service-based companies.
Gain Real-Time Insights - We'll provide you with access to real-time call data, including ring times, call durations, and call peaks. This data helps you understand customer behaviour and optimise your call handling processes.
Enjoy Flexible Call Handling - Easily manage multiple numbers under a single service, all for single setup and monthly fee. You’ll also enjoy the flexibility to route calls to up to four different numbers, ensuring every call reaches the right destination.
About the 0161 Area Code
The 0161 area code is synonymous with Manchester and its surrounding areas. Covering the vibrant city of Manchester as well as key locations across Greater Manchester.
Other areas covered by the 0161 code include:
Altrincham, Ardwick, Ashton under Lyne, Blackfriars, Bramhall, Broughton, Bury, Cheetham Hill, Chorlton cum Hardy, Collyhurst, Denton, Didsbury, Droylsden, Dukinfield, Eccles, Failsworth, Gatley, Heaton Moor, Hulme Hall, Hyde, Irlam, Longford, Manchester, Marple, Middleton, Moss Side, Oldham, Partington, Pendleton, Prestwich, Radcliffe, Ringway, Rusholme, Sale, Salford, Stalybridge, Stepping Hill, Stockport, Stretford, Swinton, Trafford, Urmston, Walkden, Whitefield, Woodley, Wythenshawe.
Contact us to find out how you can get your 0161 local phone number.
Manchester's Business Landscape
Manchester is a city on the rise, known for its strong industries in finance, digital technology, and creative media. As a hub of innovation and culture, the city attracts businesses of all sizes, from start-ups in the Northern Quarter to established firms in Spinningfields. With excellent transport links, a skilled workforce, and a vibrant community, Manchester provides the perfect environment for businesses to thrive.
Manchester Facts and Figures
- Dialling Code: 0161
- Postal Code: M1 - M40
- Population: Approximately 570,000 residents
- SMEs: Over 22,000
- Key Industries: Digital Technology, Financial Services, Media & Creative Industries, Professional Services
Office for National Statistics (ONS)
Manchester, one of the UK's largest cities and a key economic hub in the North West, has several interesting business data points reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). These data points highlight Manchester as a vibrant and diverse economic powerhouse with strengths in digital technology, finance, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Ongoing infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability investments are positioning the city for continued growth and competitiveness.
Here are some key highlights with specific figures:
Number of Businesses
Manchester has approximately 22,000 active businesses, making it one of the most significant business centres in the UK. These businesses span various sectors, including digital technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Manchester has a strong presence of SMEs, particularly in tech, creative industries, and professional services. The city's entrepreneurial culture is thriving, supported by business incubators and access to funding.
Digital and Creative Industries
Manchester is a leading hub for digital and creative industries in the UK. The MediaCityUK development in nearby Salford is home to the BBC, ITV, and a growing number of digital start-ups, contributing significantly to the city's economy. The digital tech sector alone contributes £5 billion to Greater Manchester's economy.
Financial and Professional Services
Manchester is the largest financial and professional services hub outside London. The sector employs over 250,000 people across banking, insurance, legal services, and accountancy.
Healthcare and Life Sciences
Manchester is a leading healthcare and life sciences centre, with institutions like The University of Manchester and the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust contributing to medical research and innovation.
Advanced Manufacturing
The city is also home to advanced manufacturing industries, particularly in aerospace, automotive, and materials science. The Graphene Institute, located at The University of Manchester, is a world leader in material research.
Employment Rate
Manchester's employment rate is typically around 74-76%, reflecting its strong economic base and the availability of jobs across a variety of sectors, from tech and finance to healthcare and education.
Manchester's unemployment rate tends to be slightly above the UK average, at around 5-6%. However, the city's economy is diversifying, and ongoing investment is helping to reduce unemployment.
Economic Output
Manchester's Gross Value Added (GVA) is approximately £64 billion, making it one of the largest regional economies in the UK. Digital technology, financial services, and advanced manufacturing growth drive this substantial contribution to the national economy.
GVA Per Head
Manchester's GVA per head is around £31,000, which is in line with the UK average and reflects the city's productivity and economic output.
Start-up Survival
Manchester has a robust business survival rate, with about 60-65% of new businesses surviving beyond three years. A strong business ecosystem, with accelerators, co-working spaces, and access to venture capital funding, supports this.
Population
Manchester has a population of around 570,000, with Greater Manchester having a population of 2.8 million. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the UK, with a young, diverse, and highly skilled workforce.
Workforce
Manchester benefits from a well-educated workforce driven by its universities, such as The University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Salford. The city produces a large number of graduates in fields like engineering, business, healthcare, and digital technologies.
Infrastructure and Urban Regeneration
Manchester has seen significant infrastructure and regeneration investments. Projects like the redevelopment of Spinningfields (a financial district) and the expansion of Manchester Airport have enhanced the city's business environment and connectivity.
Northern Powerhouse
Manchester is a key player in the Northern Powerhouse initiative, which aims to boost economic growth in the North of England. This initiative includes investment in transport, education, and innovation, positioning Manchester as a leading city for future growth.
Transport Hub
Manchester is a major transport hub with excellent connectivity, including Manchester Airport, the third busiest airport in the UK, which serves over 28 million passengers annually. The city's road and rail links connect it to London, other major cities in the North, and international markets.
Public Transport Investments
Recent investments in Manchester's public transport, particularly in the Metrolink tram system, have improved accessibility for businesses and residents. This makes it easier for people to commute and businesses to operate across Greater Manchester.
Tourism Impact
Manchester is a significant destination for business and leisure tourism. The city attracts millions of visitors annually, contributing to the hospitality, retail, and cultural sectors. Events such as football matches at Old Trafford and concerts at Manchester Arena boost the local economy.
Green Economy
Manchester is positioning itself as a leader in the green economy with investments in renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainability initiatives. The city aims to be carbon neutral by 2038, driving innovation and new business opportunities in the environmental sector.
Economic Growth
Manchester is expected to continue its economic growth, particularly in high-tech industries, life sciences, and financial services. However, challenges remain in addressing regional disparities and ensuring inclusive growth.
24/7 Telephone Answering Services for Manchester
Manchester’s business environment is dynamic and fast-paced. Answer4u is here to ensure that your business is always accessible, no matter the time of day. Our 24/7 services are designed to meet the needs of Manchester’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Virtual Receptionist Service
- Only £1.45p per call answered
- Your calls answered by professionals
- Immediate message notifications
- Cost saving call bundles available
- 30 day FREE Trial
- FREE 0161 number provided
Flexi Virtual Assistant Service
- Completely customised call handling
- Tailored to your business requirements
- Mirrors exact process of in-house staff
- Optional call forwarding capability
- 30 day FREE Trial
- FREE 0161 number provided
Virtual PA Diary Management Service
- Your diary managed professionally
- Preferred diary management integration
- Relevant information captured accurately
- Your own dedicated account manager
- Bespoke scripting process
- Unlimited call types & questions
Request a call back for:
Frequently Asked Questions
A virtual phone number is a telephone number that isn’t directly tied to a physical phone line. It can be used to route calls to any device, such as a mobile phone, landline, or computer.
This flexibility allows businesses to manage their calls from anywhere, making it easier to stay connected with customers, regardless of location. You can also use virtual numbers with local area codes to establish a business presence in different regions.
The 0161 phone code covers Manchester and several surrounding areas within Greater Manchester. This includes the city of Manchester itself and key locations such as Salford, Stockport, Oldham, Bury, Rochdale, and Altrincham.
The 0161 area code is widely recognised as the code for the Greater Manchester region, making it a valuable asset for businesses looking to establish or reinforce their local presence.
Using a local 0161 number offers several benefits for businesses across Manchester. It helps establish trust and credibility with local customers, who are likelier to engage with a company they perceive as local. A local number can also increase call response rates, as people are more inclined to answer calls from familiar area codes.
You can get your dedicated 0161 Manchester phone number as soon as you sign up to one of our services. We make the process seamless so you can start using your new number in your marketing materials right away.
In addition, any number we provide that is not attached to an Answer4u service and through our Numbers4u platform is usually available for your business to use on the same working day.
Yes, the local prefix 0161 can be viewed as a landline number. It is the area code for Manchester and the surrounding areas within Greater Manchester and is typically associated with a physical address in the region.
However, 0161 can also be used to prefix a virtual number that can be rerouted to a landline, mobile, or VoIP number of your choice. Using a 0161 virtual number for your business enables you to give the appearance of a local presence.
Manchester hosts numerous high-profile events, from sports fixtures to international conferences. During these peak times, Answer4u can help your business manage increased call volumes with our flexible call handling services.
Whether it’s handling customer enquiries during Manchester International Festival or managing bookings for Premiership or Football League match days, our 24/7 services ensure that your business remains responsive and accessible, even during the busiest times.
Contact Us Today
Whether you need a full-time telephone answering service or support during peak times, Answer4u is here to help. Contact us today on 0800 822 3344 to learn more about our telephone answering services in Manchester or to arrange a free consultation.
Virtual Telephone Numbers
With our virtual telephone numbers, you can connect with customers across the country. Choose a dedicated local number from any of the cities listed below, or request a number in another UK location to suit your business needs.