In recent years, the UK has seen its SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) sector become one of the most dynamic and fast-growing segments of the digital economy.

With businesses across all industries prioritising scalability, data-driven operations, and remote accessibility, cloud-based platforms have become a critical foundation for digital transformation.

As well as being technically versatile and commercially strong, SaaS is a recurring revenue model with low barriers to adoption and the ability to serve both enterprise and consumer markets - making SaaS companies attractive to investors and acquirers.

In this article, we explore the meaning of SaaS, the different types of SaaS companies including B2B and B2C, and highlight the top 10 SaaS companies in the UK based on the research conducted by Beauhurst. We will also explore the UK SaaS trends in 2025, the future of the SaaS industry and how GS Verde Group can help support your business when it comes to SaaS developments and strategic growth.

What is Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

Software-as-a-Service companies, otherwise known as SaaS, deliver cloud-based software online to enhance the quality of internal services.

The UK has seen significant growth when it comes to SaaS, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. SaaS has since been adopted more widely across various industries, from e-commerce to banking, fintech, and - increasingly - artificial intelligence. The range of possibilities for SaaS is extensive, with the UK continuing to see growth at a faster rate than before as technology continues to develop.

From managing online global payments, challenger banking, to AI-driven fraud detection, real-time customer engagement and marketing services, SaaS solutions are deeply embedded in business operations, offering a clear reflection of how modern enterprises are run.

B2B vs B2C: Understanding SaaS Business Models

SaaS companies often operate under one of two main models depending on their target market:

• B2B (Business-to-Business): SaaS platforms offer products and services - including automation, data insights, and productivity platforms - to businesses and enterprises across various sectors.

• B2C (Business-to-Consumer): SaaS companies offer services directly to individuals, often through subscriptions or freemium models. These platforms include tools that help individuals manage their personal finance, travel, media, and digital services.

Top 10 SaaS Companies in the UK

Here, we explore the UK’s top 10 leading SaaS companies within their specific fields:

Fintech and Payments

• FNZ: Incorporated in 2005, the London-based company delivers an end-to-end technology solution to integrate investment front office, tax wrappers, and back-office capabilities. The company has raised £1.43 billion across two funding rounds.
• Checkout.com: Hackney-based fintech company Checkout.com offers a payment platform serving global online merchants. Founded in 2012, the company has raised £1.36 billion.
• Starling Bank: Starling Bank, based in London, is a digital challenger bank and an app-based platform which supports both personal and business accounts. Incorporated in 2014, the company has raised £715 million across nine rounds.
• Zepz: The London-based company, founded in 2019, provides cross-border digital remittance services through its brands Sendwave and WorldRemit. It has raised £711 million across nine funding rounds.
• Dojo: Fintech company Dojo, established in 2016, delivers smart payment solutions and business tools for SMEs across the UK and Europe. Based in Westminster, Dojo has raised £471 million across five funding rounds.

AI, Simulation and Infrastructure

• Quantexa: The Tower Hamlets-based company has a decision intelligence platform which connects internal and external data sources to detect risk and uncover fraud. Incorporated in 2016, the platform is used by governments and global banks, and has raised £421 million across six funding rounds.
• Thought Machine: Based in Camden and founded in 2014, Thought Machine builds cloud-native core banking systems for banks and fintech companies - raising £664 million across seven rounds since its establishment in 2012.
• Improbable: Improbable, based in Tower Hamlets, develops large-scale virtual worlds and simulations for gaming, enterprise and defence use. Improbable has raised £664 million across seven rounds since it was established in 2012.

Specialised SaaS Platforms

• OneTrust: The London-based company, incorporated in 2001, helps organisations manage privacy, ESG, compliance and vendor risk. Originally launched in London and now headquartered in Atlanta, the company has raised £699 million across four funding rounds and acquired several compliance technology businesses.
• Lighthouse: Lighthouse, based in Southwark, is a SaaS and cloud-based platform designed to help hotels with revenue and pricing management. Founded in 2017, the company has raised £379 million across seven funding rounds.

Key Trends Shaping the UK SaaS Sector in 2025

The UK SaaS sector has seen significant expansion so far in 2025, with more developments on the horizon.

In 2025, there are several key trends that are defining the SaaS sector’s growth, including:

• AI Integration: SaaS platforms are embedding artificial intelligence to create smarter, more adaptive products for businesses.
• Fintech Infrastructure Growth: Many SaaS businesses, like Starling Bank, are helping to reshape how money moves with infrastructure - supporting instant payments, global commerce, and regulatory compliance.
• Sector Specialisation: The UK SaaS sector is seeing a trend where companies are building hyper-focused tools tailored to specific verticals such as hotel revenue management, ESG compliance and cross-border remittance.
• M&A Activity: The UK is also seeing a rise in M&A activity, with SaaS companies actively acquiring complementary platforms to scale offerings and expand internationally.
• Global Scaling and Exit-Readiness: As the SaaS sector grows, many UK SaaS companies are seeking global expansion through acquisition and IPOs - highlighting the importance of robust legal and financial frameworks in the sector.

The Future of SaaS in the UK

Looking ahead, the future of the UK’s SaaS sector is one of scale and global ambition - with cloud infrastructure now seen as an essential element for agility especially for businesses operating in hybrid, remote and global environments.

As a result, platforms that provide automation, predictive analytics, or cross-border service delivery are rapidly gaining value for businesses - particularly for companies within the finance, logistics, health and compliance sectors.

As the SaaS sector continues to strengthen its position in the UK market, more companies are looking at long-term growth strategies such as:

• Platform integration through M&A
• Preparing for business exit through private equity or IPO
• Expansion into new markets on an international scale
• AI innovation to stay ahead of product competitors in an increasingly crowded market

As competition intensifies within the UK SaaS sector, businesses will need to ensure that their internal structures, financial strategies, and commercial offerings are aligned with investor and acquirer expectations to achieve long-term success.

Expert Advice: How GS Verde Group Supports SaaS Companies

As we see advancements in technology and the demand for cloud-based platforms continuing to rise, seeking expert advice is essential to stay ahead of developments to ensure future success for your business.

At GS Verde Group, we understand the opportunities and challenges that SaaS companies face when scaling within the sector. That’s why we specialise in navigating high-growth technology and SaaS businesses through key stages of their journey with confidence and clarity - from scaling up to acquisition and exit strategies.

Our multi-discipline team of legal, financial, tax, accountancy and communications experts work seamlessly together to deliver efficient, integrated outcomes for SaaS companies through our unique ‘One Team’ approach.

To read more, visit: Top 100 SaaS Companies in the UK | 2025 - Beauhurst