Formisimo expands its business operations at MediaCityUK

Award-winning business Formisimo, the start-up that uses technology to personalise and enhance online shopping experiences, has seen a huge response to their unique business offering and has grown from 2 to 14 employees and trebled the size of their office space from 420 sq ft to over 2000 sq ft – in little over two years.

Founded by digital entrepreneurs Tom New and Al Mackin, Formisimo has a diverse global client base including Secret Escapes, Arsenal and Lexus, and has settled within the growing creative and technology community at MediaCityUK.

Technology firm Formisimo secured a £30,000 package of business support at last year’s (2015) Venturefest and are now using the funding to help develop its new product, which can predict whether or not a consumer will complete an online purchase. Last week they were also named winner of the Tech North Northern Stars pitch competition at Bloomberg in London.

Talking enthusiastically about his business, Al said: “We moved to MediaCityUK because of the amenities and transport links. We wanted our staff to get here easily, and we need good coffee and food! It’s a vibrant place to work, there’s always something exciting happening, and it’s all on our doorstep. We’re used by companies in over a hundred countries – so having good connectivity means we can have conversations from our base at MediaCityUK and it is recognised by many of our clients – we love MediaCityUK”.

Al said his advice to anyone starting a tech business in Manchester, would be to commit everything you have to your business, and spend your time wisely. He also said that having a base in a place like the Greenhouse at MediaCityUK is perfect, as you just pay one bill for rent, rates and utilities – so his time isn’t tied up dealing with multiple suppliers, and the business costs are predictable. 

Managing director of MediaCityUK, Stephen Wild added: “Formisimo is a phenomenal success story and we are delighted that their HQ here at MediaCityUK has grown so rapidly to date. There is a growing community of expanding creative and digital enterprises who are earmarking MediaCityUK as their launch pad. It is great to be part of the story that has seen investors supporting their product, drive and passion to help make their business model a reality. I really hope that Formisimo will hopefully inspire other start-ups to realise their ambition. I am sure this is just the start for them”.

Formisimo tells companies why their customers aren’t buying from them online. Increasing revenue and reducing abandonment is critical for ecommerce businesses, and with an average of 67% of people abandoning a checkout it’s a quick win for a sales uplift. Formisimo have a diverse range of large and small users, Including ShopDirect, Experian, QVC and Travelex.