E-commerce firm plans office expansion inspired by home working

A North East-based e-commerce platform specialist has announced that it is expanding its office footprint to safely accommodate future growth.

One of the UK’s fastest growing e-commerce developers, Aero Commerce was launched just 12 months ago by Richard Bendelow and Matt Burton, who both have more than 15 years’ experience in e-commerce, retail, and software development.

The tech company, which provides a sales platform for retailers through a network of agency partners, has already supported almost £100 million worth of e-commerce transactions and is forecast to reach in excess of a quarter of a billion pounds this year.

Following its latest round of investment, the Middlesbrough and Newcastle-based firm plans to overhaul and expand its Commerce House office space to meet its growth ambitions.

Richard Bendelow, CEO and founder of Aero Commerce said: “We are really proud to be part of Tees Valley and the North East’s growing tech and digital sector, and this expansion strengthens our commitment to the area.

“Being part of the vibrant tech cluster is helping us attract talented local people into the business that can support our growth and, by increasing our footprint in Commerce House, we will be able to expand our team to serve a larger client base.”

The additional floorspace will allow the company’s recruitment plans for extra developers and an expanded sales and marketing team to move forward, providing new jobs to the area while ensuring enough room for effective social distancing once lockdown restrictions are eased.

The company is also utilising its experience of home working during the pandemic to provide an in-office alternative to its creative team space, with the introduction of a ‘Focus Zone’.

Richard added: “Taking this additional space is also helping us to rethink our workspace and create an environment that is both collaborative and creative, but also can provide more social distancing and embrace some of the benefits of remote working.

“Our new ‘Focus Zone’ will provide the right balance alongside our open plan office, which is essential for a dynamic, scale-up business to adapt quickly and make the most of the skills of the team.”

This breakout space, consisting of a series of pods, will enable members of the team to work on projects in a quiet area, which has been highlighted as one of the benefits of home working during lockdown.

The company will also be creating sound proofed video conferencing rooms so they can continue to host virtual meetings, minimising travel requirements.

Aero Commerce has received investments totalling £1.4 million to date which, alongside its growing market position, is driving the company’s strategy to increase the online retail transactions handled by the Aero platform.