Advertising agency hails prospects after HQ move

An advertising agency is eyeing expansion after a headquarters move.

Smart Outdoor has switched to a 2300sq ft office at The Yard, in Sunderland.

Bosses say the 50-staff hub, based within the city’s Riverside Sunderland regeneration scheme, will “be more than a workplace”.

Founded in 2019, the business supplies a network of live screens covering towns and cities from Edinburgh to London. 

Mark Catterall, founder and chief executive, said: “We’re an ambitious, growing company and this new office will help us continue on our journey.

“We have long been based in Sunderland, with the North East historically being our heartland, and this move is testament to how great this area is to do business.”

Smart Outdoor – which last year unveiled a digital forecourt partnership with fuel operator Shell – was supported on its move by Sunderland City Council’s business investment team.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business, said: “Smart Outdoor is a real Sunderland success story.

“It is great the firm has reiterated its commitment to the city.”

The Yard was developed by The Hanro Group.

Gagan Jagpal, the operator’s head of portfolio, added: “We’re delighted Smart Outdoor has chosen The Yard to realise its ambitious growth plans.”

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