Manchester is quickly becoming a key player in the global tech scene. With a thriving community of skilled professionals, its growth trajectory is impressive.
As an influential city outside London, Manchester offers tech businesses a unique opportunity to tap into a vast pool of talent, a factor crucial for companies aiming for success.
Manchester: A Hub of Tech Innovation
The city of Manchester is rapidly emerging as a focal point for technological growth and innovation. With a reputation for hosting a vibrant tech community, it attracts businesses seeking to capitalise on its skilled workforce. Manchester’s tech scene is diverse, encompassing various sectors from digital marketing to software development, and it’s poised to continue flourishing in the coming years.
Mark Wright, winner of the 2014 Apprentice series, highlights Manchester’s significance in the tech world. He notes that any tech company serious about success needs a presence here. His digital agency, Climb Online, plans to establish a ‘digital hub’ in the city, acknowledging the wealth of technology talent available. Wright’s remarks underscore the city’s growing reputation as the UK’s tech capital beyond London.
The Allure of MediaCityUK
Wright’s decision to explore Salford’s MediaCityUK for establishing Climb Online is strategic. MediaCityUK is renowned for being a media-centric hub, home to major players like the BBC and ITV. This environment fosters creativity and innovation, making it an ideal location for digital companies.
Currently, Climb Online has a small team operating remotely in Manchester. The company plans to expand by recruiting 25 more staff within a year. This decision is driven by the abundance of tech-savvy professionals in the area, a contrast to the scarcity experienced in London. The city’s appeal for tech companies is undeniable.
Talent Pool: Manchester vs. London
Manchester’s talent pool is a critical factor in the city’s appeal to tech firms. Businesses find the availability of skilled professionals here far exceeds that in London.
Wright’s experience illustrates this disparity. A job advert placed in Manchester attracted 60 high-quality applicants, a stark contrast to the lack of responses in London. Employers are increasingly eyeing Manchester as a prime location for tapping into a reservoir of tech expertise.
The thriving community of tech professionals in Manchester is characterized by its proficiency in SEO, pay-per-click, and other crucial technology skills. For companies like Climb Online, following the talent numbers is not just strategic; it’s essential for sustainable growth.
Climb Online’s Strategic Expansion
Climb Online’s move to Manchester is described as a ‘natural progression’ for the company. With existing offices in London and Bristol, the expansion aligns with their goal of increasing turnover from £5.2 million in 2016 to £7.5 million by the end of 2017.
Having gained investment from Lord Alan Sugar on the BBC programme, Climb Online has established itself as a leading agency in digital marketing. Wright’s connection to Manchester only strengthens his commitment to the city, providing a personal dimension to this business decision.
A Personal Connection to Manchester
Mark Wright’s connection to Manchester goes beyond business motives. As a Manchester United supporter whose grandmother was born in the city, he maintains a personal affection for the place.
Wright recounts his early days in Manchester, where he first lived when arriving in England. Despite not securing employment at the time, his bond with the city endures. Now, as a successful entrepreneur, he returns with ambitious plans to contribute to the local tech scene’s growth.
His move to Manchester is not merely a strategic business relocation but also a fulfilment of a long-standing personal connection. This integration of personal and professional aspirations highlights the city’s importance to Wright.
The Future of Tech in Manchester
Manchester is poised to solidify its status as a premier tech hub in the UK. With a proven track record of fostering innovative companies, the city’s infrastructure and talent pool make it an attractive proposition for tech enterprises.
Climb Online’s expansion underscores this potential, setting a precedent for other businesses to follow. The city’s vibrant environment continues to draw tech firms aiming to leverage its resources for growth and success.
For Manchester, the future is bright. As more companies establish their presence here, the city is set to enhance its reputation as a leader in the technology sector, paving the way for pioneering advancements.
In conclusion, Manchester’s tech landscape is burgeoning with potential. The city’s strategic advantages make it a prime location for businesses looking to innovate and expand.
With continued investment and focus, Manchester is set to redefine the UK’s tech industry landscape, solidifying its position as a leader in the field.
