Member Article

Visualsoft shares expansion plans with new Northern Powerhouse Minister

Newly appointed Northern Powerhouse Minister James Wharton has visited a Tees Valley-based eCommerce company to hear how the firm is growing and providing an economic boost to the area.

Following a surge in growth, Visualsoft is set to move into a 30,000 sq ft building on Teesdale Business Park Stockton.

The Minister toured the company’s new premises and met with directors who briefed him on Visualsoft’s recent progress and its future development plans.

The firm, which employs almost 200 people across the UK, has ambitions to further strengthen its position in the industry by acquiring companies that complement the brand’s existing core products and services. The company expects to double the size of its workforce in the next few years.

The Minister also met representatives from Tees Valley Unlimited, the Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley.

Mr Wharton said: “The Government is moving powers out of Whitehall so our towns and cities are able to support businesses better to create thousands of local jobs and bring about greater prosperity in the North East.

“Visualsoft is a great example of the dynamic and innovative companies that are making a positive impact that will help the area make a valuable contribution to the development of a Northern Powerhouse.”

Dean Benson, Visualsoft Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are really excited about our growth plans, which include moving to new Tees Valley premises that have the potential to accommodate a bigger workforce.

“It was a great privilege to show the Minister how far we have come since we started out as an online training venture 16 years ago, and what our plans are for future growth.”

Stephen Catchpole, Managing Director of TVU, the Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley, said: “James Wharton’s visit to Tees Valley has allowed us to showcase the type of go-ahead, ambitious companies that are making a positive economic impact on the area.

“The Minister has an excellent understanding of the business and economic issues affecting the North and, of course, a real affinity with the Tees Valley and its businesses.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →