Leeds digital marketing agency storms ahead in first year as turnover hits £420k

A Leeds-based digital marketing agency has generated a turnover of more than £420k in fees in its first year of operation.

Perfect Storm was founded by Adam Errington and Dave Nutter, who wanted to establish a ‘better way’ and a more agile model for a marketing agency.

Instead of employing in-house designers, developers and copywriters, the agency switches them on as and when needed from their network of partners.

The agency is working with a client list including pet food brands Royal Canin, James Wellbeloved and Greenies, along with sustainable developer Citu and luxury hotel brand Claridges.

As well as developing new websites for the brands, Perfect Storm has also helped with branding, SEO, social media and web support. The agency’s work for these clients has resulted in a RAR recommended status (Recommended Agency Register).

During the first year, the team has also recruited its first in-house employee – Chris Chadwick, a digital producer who brings account management and data capabilities to the team.

Over the next two years, Perfect storm plans to recruit for client services, strategist and project manager roles.

In addition the in-house team, Perfect Storm now has a network of almost 65 partners, including designers, developers and copywriters. These are picked for appropriate briefs when their talents fit the bill.

Adam Errington said: “It’s great to see that the model we’ve created is proving just as popular with clients as we hoped it would be. We’ve learnt a lot in this first year.

“Whilst there’s no doubt the agency scene in Leeds and Manchester is a crowded one, there’s still space for everyone to operate successfully. You must have a plan, and know who you are and exactly what you can offer.

“Clients demand that agencies are agile, that they can do things quickly and provide them with top talent that they would otherwise be unable to reach – which is why Perfect Storm’s model of bringing in that expertise only when it’s needed makes sense. We’re certainly lucky to have the skills and talent we have available within the network.”

Dave Nutter added: “We’re very proud of the work we’ve done for our clients. The website we created for natural pet food James Wellbeloved is, creatively and visually, entirely different to anything else in the sector, which has already won a lot of attention.

“Likewise for Citu, which is completely unlike any other property developer, we wanted to move away from the stereotypical house builder website. Not only does the look communicate that but the functionality is present too.

“There is plot and masterplan navigation, 3D siteplan models, augmented reality, plot reservation functionality - in fact, eventually, users will be able to fully purchase their house and exchange documents online.

“By bringing in the best people for the job, we’re able to create something which really stands out.”