Tees Business Tees Business Issue 21 | Page 48

Publicity Seekers – the growing PR agency has relocated to Albert North in Middlesbrough. NORTHERN LIGHTS Ambitious, growing companies make Albert North a regeneration success 48 | Tees Business T he transformation of Albert Road into Albert North is proving to be a regeneration success story with more than 40,000 sq ft let within 15 months. The multi-million-pound project, which has breathed new life into Middlesbrough’s historic quarter, has welcomed a string of ambitious, growing companies and created a vibrant, collaborative business community. Home to some of the town’s most iconic buildings, the area has benefitted from a joint approach to investment between Middlesbrough Council and local property and regeneration specialist Jomast. Public relations firm Publicity Seekers relocated to Albert North six months ago and managing director Samantha Lee said: “Without a doubt, it’s the best decision we’ve made.” Previously operating from a business park in Hartlepool, Samantha decided to make the move because she felt the town was going places, regeneration and investment were happening, and there was a definite buzz about the business community, especially its growing digital sector. She was immediately attracted to 16/26 as it was precisely the bright and airy space Sam wanted. “There are five of us in the team, but we are looking to grow so, with 1,000 sq ft, it gives us plenty of space to be able to do that,” she added. “Since moving here, we have made many great connections, there are so many businesses based here and they all interact and collaborate. The impact on the business has been tremendous, it has opened more doors for us, we’ve won more work, and as a result, I will be employing more people.” It’s this vibrant community and collaborative approach to working that inspired Samantha to launch Digital Teesside. Born out of conversations with other digital businesses, it aims to bring the community together to raise awareness of what companies do and encourage collaboration. “I would never have launched Digital Teesside if we hadn’t relocated to Albert North. The best thing about moving here is the community, it’s so nice to be amongst like-minded people. We felt out on a limb before, but we are now surrounded by businesses who are ambitious and motivated, which is positively infectious,” said Samantha. Another business that is experiencing significant growth since opening a showroom at 21 Albert Road is interior design business Cocoon & Bauer. The company, which provides high-end interior design services for commercial, residential and hospitality sectors, wanted a high street presence as the domestic side of the business was really taking off. Managing director Peter Turner said: “I quickly identified Albert North was the best place to open our first showroom, the area was starting to have a real buzz about it and I could see it was an attractive place for business. “Jomast were incredibly supportive of our ideas through the entire process and the end result is a luxurious showroom that feels like an apartment. “The space has also allowed us to create various zones, including a kitchen, office and living spaces as well as themes that showcase our services and