North East data analysis consultancy, Gavurin Limited has purchased and developed its first headquarters on the site of a formerly derelict property in Newcastle city centre.
Supported by a six-figure development loan from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, the project has seen ‘The Racquets Court’ building renovated into a state-of-the-art workspace for the business. Although the building served as a venue for the playing of Racquets for many years, it had been sitting empty for over 10 years prior to the redevelopment.
Incorporating the original features of the premises, including a Victorian staircase and glass feature ceiling, the business has created an innovative 5,000 sq ft space over two floors.
Following a period of sustained growth, the management team felt the time was right to move to be part of the growing digital, software and technology scene in the centre of Newcastle to maximise new business opportunities.
Gavurin develops and builds its own software to visualise and analyse data that allow its clients to make strategic management decisions. The business’ international client portfolio covers a diverse range of sectors. This includes Dun & Bradstreet, the commercial data and insights provider, and not-for-profit organisation Hospice UK.
With big ambitions for the region’s technology sector, Gavurin plans to use 50 per cent of its new office as a collaborative working space and a wider networking hub for the North East technology community. Members will have access to desk space, meeting rooms or can use the building as a virtual office.
The Racquets Court is one of the only buildings in Newcastle to already be connected to the new Metropolitan Area Network, a new super-fast gigabyte internet line. The advanced fibre optic cable will enable the business to move large volumes of data across wide areas nationally and internationally at high speed; a key strength for competing in the digital economy.
Gavurin’s managing director, Jonathan Graham, said: “Connectivity is a major consideration for technology businesses when looking to re-locate. We believe the new advanced fibre infrastructure, only metres from our new headquarters, gives us a real competitive advantage. It also has the potential to be transformational for the whole of the North East.
“Thanks to the support of Lloyds Bank, we now have an innovative, creative and technologically advanced working environment. This will help us realise our growth ambitions for the business.”
John Turnbull, Relationship Director, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Having started from relatively humble beginnings, Gavurin has grown to the point where it can now boast an international client book.
“Newcastle has always been the business’ main base and now it is looking to work with more companies closer to home. The team has set itself some ambitious targets and this move to The Racquets Court, a key milestone for the business, will play a significant part in helping it achieve these goals.
“We have made clear commitments to support SME and Mid-Market businesses with a £6bn increase in net lending over the next three years. As Newcastle looks to grow its reputation as a centre for digital, software and technological innovation, we’re pleased to be supporting businesses like Gavurin that will help realise this ambition and more widely will help Britain prosper.”