Tech firm joins Powerhouse partnership as it aims to grow

THE FOUNDERS of the mobile phone app, Connected-York, are celebrating their first year in business after surviving major economic setbacks caused by the pandemic, which led to a dramatic fall in visitor numbers.

The app, which helps businesses communicate with residents, was launched in 2019 after months of research and development.

The founders, Andrew Stark and Melissa Magson, adapted the app so they could support businesses and residents of York as their needs changed.

Mr Stark said: “Covid-19 knocked all businesses sideways, and we were no exception. Lockdown delivered a horrible reality for us and many other organisations too.

“We can only count ourselves as lucky as we were able to be quite dynamic and change our model quickly to continue to champion our local retailers.”

Ms Magson added: “Things slowed with Covid-19 initially, then the pace of app downloads began to increase dramatically as residents looked for up-todate and timely information, and retailers have looked for more ways to communicate. This form of real-time digital connection between retailers and residents and the high street has resonated with many.”

A spokesman said: “The app was originally built on the concept that physical retail needs technology to help it evolve, and it can be used as an enabler to support physical retail, and not to detract and replace it.

“As York is the app’s home city, it’s no surprise that the focus is on local, however in the longer-term there are plans for growth further afield.”

The firm became a Northern Powerhouse Partner in July, which reflects its commitment to support economic growth.

Ms Magson added yesterday: “We’re possibly one of the smallest Northern Powerhouse members, however our aspirations and passion for the North, particularly Yorkshire, remain just as strong.

“We’re thrilled to be part of this, and for us it also represents a great support and networking opportunity with some fantastic organisations we can learn so much from.”

Mr Stark said: “We’ve taken a few knocks, but we’re made of strong Yorkshire stuff and we’ve got so much more to come.

“We’re proudly flying the flag for the small businesses, the independent retailers – and plenty of the larger, more characterful ones.”