Big deal as small firms enter Arena
9:23am Thursday 21st February 2013 in News
A THERAPY business and a “jargon-free” digital marketing firm are among the new tenants at Bolton Arena.
In November, the site held a business exhibition attended by 60 firms to promote itself as a base for small businesses, highlighting its transport links, starter-offices, customer base and closeness to Middlebrook’s other offices, retail and leisure sites.
Marketing manager Gwyn Hughes said a number of firms have arrived in recent months, including search engine optimisation firm Bring Digital.
It was founded by David Ingram, who previously worked for DRL, the firm behind Appliances Online, which was interested in buying Comet’s website last year.
Mr Ingram, aged 28, a former Canon Slade School pupil, started building websites for friends, but now his clients include stand-up comedian Paul Sinha, from ITV’s The Chase, and writer-comedian Sarah Millican.
He said: “The business gradually grew. However, I felt there was greater scope in search engine optimisation work.”
He left school aged 16 and worked as a trainee accountant with Bolton Council, then moved into recruitment with The People Pod at Astley Bridge.
He initially worked as a freelance website designer then launched Bring Digital last year.
He now works with wife Susie Ingram, aged 24, Rachel Hurley, aged 23, and apprentice Joe Hennessey, who is 17.
Despite the two celebrity clients, Mr Ingram said: “We want to deal with ordinary Bolton firms and offer no-nonsense web marketing without jargon. Too many businesses are baffled and bamboozled by trendy PR guys carrying tablet computers.
“Firms simply want to know what we do, how we’ll do it and what they’ll get in return.”
Another new arrival is Counselling Arena, run by Priya Patel.
The 39-year-old former Bolton Council and NHS worker said the arena’s gym and health activities complement her work.
She studied at Salford College and the University of Bolton, and received help from Bolton Business Ventures.
She said: “In my past roles, I often met people with health problems who wanted to discuss other problems too.
“I look at people’s feelings and health, work out what affects their behaviour and their options.
“By understanding their issues, people can move forward.
“For example, conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can be linked to stress or family problems.”
Ms Patel also had help from Bolton Business Ventures, based in Lower Bridgeman Street.
