Leeds Ventures launch app supporting businesses across the city

A new app that promotes independent businesses and the leisure scene has been launched in Leeds.

Radius, a free location-based app which works off Google maps, aims to help locals, residents, tourists and commuters by acting as an information guide as to what is happening within ten minutes walking distance of their location.

The app has been set up by Leeds Ventures, an independent organisation established by David and Sarah Laycock in 2013 that specialises in projects to improve visitor experience in the city.

As well as the Radius App, Leeds Ventures also launched Leeds Welcome and the Leeds City Ambassador volunteer scheme, as part of a new project that champions digital and physical platforms to welcome visitors and residents in the city,

These brand new initiatives aim to enhance the visitor experience in the city by showcasing the very best Leeds has to offer by uniting independent businesses, cultural attractions, community organisations and individuals to champion and collectively promote Leeds.

David Laycock, development director at Leeds Ventures said: “It makes sense as the largest employment base in digital and creative industries outside London for Leeds to launch a new app that really celebrates the points of difference in the city. Leeds is a vibrant place to live, work, visit and do business and our vision is about providing a framework and relevant platforms that support and promote creative, cultural and independent businesses and organisations by enhancing the visitor experience by connecting people, places and events in the city in new and innovative ways.”

David Simmonds a Leeds-designer who developed Radius, added: “Visitors to a city and locals alike can often bypass the smaller independent business’ in favour of the more established and recognised high street retailers. Independents are facing challenging times and can often be off the beaten track and easily missed. We identified a gap in provision and saw a real need for a web-based app like Radius that gives the user a choice of where to eat, shop and spend time. It was important to make Radius free, immediate and user friendly. We are looking forward to developing this project with Leeds Ventures and have plans in place for exciting upgrades to further enhance user experience.”

Leeds Welcome will be working alongside First Direct Arena and O2, as lead partners these venues are keen to offer their support to projects that will benefit the city by increasing awareness and visibility for Leeds businesses and organisations and by taking a joined up approach to visitor experience.

Ben Williams, general manager at First Direct Arena said: “First Direct Arena is really excited to be part of this new initiative for the city, with our ongoing support we are looking forward to creating a visitor centred experience in which visitors feel welcome, are informed and enjoy a unique Leeds welcome.”

Caroline Gorski, managing partner for Retail & Leisure at O2 said: “At O2 we are working hard to ensure both large and independent retailers have a place on the high street of the future. Leeds Ventures aims to empower independent retailers in Leeds through their app, websites, social media channels and the stylish Little Black Book and we are pleased to be supporting their ambition with our technological expertise.”