Web developers expand into Sunderland

A North East which specialises in web development, e-commerce and design, is expanding with a new Sunderland office.

Consult and Design, which specialises in using Drupal, an innovative, open-source web development platform for online content and user communities, is working with other technology-based businesses in the area to share best practice and promote the advantages of Drupal technology at its new Sunderland Software Centre office.

The company, which boasts an impressive portfolio of global clients, specialises in producing highly customised websites and online platforms which allow visitors to interact and take part in campaigns and debates online working with organisations as far afield as Egypt and Italy from their office in Newcastle and now their new base in Sunderland.

Operations director, Adam Hill, who has been involved in the digital sector for over fifteen years and co-founded the regional Drupal developers meeting, said he is keen to promote the use of the software by facilitating training events in partnership with Sunderland Software City and local universities.

He said: “We are keen to be able to meet with other technology-based business not only to hold training but to provide a forum to share ideas and best practice. Our expansion into The Software Centre means we can now meet with businesses we would otherwise not have been able to engage with.

“The team work with a number of global organisations, to develop online platforms and websites to allow interactive dialogue and commerce. We have become experts in our field and I am keen to share our knowledge and learn from others.”

As well as building relationships with other North East based organisations, the company also invest in local talent, something Consult and Design’s managing director, David Van der Velde, is passionate about.

He commented: “As a North East business we have been going strong for almost 15 years. The reason we have enjoyed success is down to our thirst for new ideas and fresh perspectives. I believe by investing in new talent emerging in the area we in turn strengthen our business offer.

“We signed up to an internship scheme and now employ Nathan Lawson, a University of Sunderland Design graduate. He is a real asset and his efforts have not gone un-noticed, he has recently been shortlisted for the university’s intern of the year award. We are so happy to be able to contribute to the city’s future as a technology hub.”

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It really is fantastic to see new tenants move into the centre, and to support the growth of businesses in a sector that we absolutely believe can be a real cornerstone to both Sunderland’s and the North East’s economy. Consult and Design joins a number of companies choosing to build and grow their business at the Sunderland Software Centre.

“We are delighted to welcome a business that shares our commitment to driving the city forward as a key base for technology-based businesses as well as our passion to nurture home-grown talent. The Software Centre provides an ideal base for expanding companies that are looking for a cutting edge place from which to do business.”