Sir James Dyson still at the top of South West's Sunday Times Rich List
The annual list, compiled by the Sunday Times, shows Dyson's estimated wealth at £12 billion
Last updated 22 hours ago
Sir James Dyson and his family have maintained their position at the top of the South West Rich List, as disclosed in the latest edition of The Sunday Times Rich List, despite a significant drop in his overall wealth.
The annual list, detailing the fortunes of the UK's wealthiest individuals and families, shows Dyson's estimated wealth at £12 billion.
This marks a notable decrease in revenue at Dyson's consumer electrical group over the last two years, which is headquartered in Malmesbury - a decline that has been influenced by tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.
Dyson's Singapore-based business is now valued at £8 billion after reporting profits of £600 million, with a further £4 billion linked to assets outside the company including extensive farmland holdings.
The special 76-page edition of The Sunday Times Magazine highlights the most significant fall in billionaire numbers in its 38-year publication history.
The Impact of Wealth Exodus
One in six individuals from the list two years ago are absent from this year’s edition, indicating a notable exodus of wealth from the UK.
Many former residents, including foreign billionaires, have relocated, influencing the national and regional wealth count.
Robert Watts, the compiler of the Rich List, highlighted the economic challenges posed by such departures.
He commented on the implications for the UK economy and public finances, particularly in relation to job creation and taxation from those who have moved abroad.
Significant Entrants and Re-entries
Among notable entries, fashion designer Jade Holland Cooper and her husband, Superdry founder Julian Dunkerton, have re-entered the Rich List. Cooper is the wealthiest under 40 in the region, adding diversity to the wealth landscape.
Additionally, Emily Eavis and her family, known for hosting the Glastonbury Festival, have made their debut on the list with an estimated wealth of £400 million.
Overall, the 2026 Rich List showcases 350 individuals and families collectively possessing wealth amounting to £783.5 billion.
This sum surpasses the annual GDP of countries like Belgium and Sweden, representing about a quarter of the UK's annual GDP.
The list continues to reflect not just the wealth of Britain's most affluent but also insights into new industries, including artificial intelligence, driverless technology, and crypto-currencies.