Sisters are doing it for themselves in business

More women are setting up their own businesses than ever before, according to figures published today.

Research by Barclays finds that entrepreneurial activity among women in the UK has grown by 28 per cent since 2000. It is the highest level recorded and also shows a growing trend in female singletons setting up their own companies, up from 11 per cent in 2000 to 26 per cent today.

The main reasons for the surge in female start-ups are that they want to be their own boss (39 per cent) and have independence (15 per cent).

Louise Fowler, head of marketing for Barclays Small Business, said: "Today's female entrepreneur continues to demonstrate how she can successfully contribute towards UK businesses and the economy."

The report also shows that almost 60 per cent of female businesses are in the retail or leisure service sectors. Physical wellbeing and health activities are the fastest growing areas.

Hairdressing and beauty has grown by almost 100 per cent and is ranked as the top startup for women. The South-West leads the way for start-ups, followed by East Anglia and the North-West.