Documentary focuses on Northern Quarter success story
A new documentary has been released which explores why Manchester’s Northern Quarter is thriving at a time when many of the traditional high street giants have struggled.
The film has been made by payroll and HR software provider KashFlow, and looks at the reasons why the Northern Quarter is experiencing unprecedented growth..
Data released by Inform Direct in their Review of UK Company Formations revealed that Greater Manchester was the most active area in England, outside of London, for companies to start up in 2017.
In particular, the Ancoats and Clayton ward – which includes parts of the Northern Quarter – was found to have had more businesses open than close in the region last year.
KashFlow, commissioned the documentary after reflecting on the fact that many of their clients and contacts based in the Northern Quarter had unique and inspiring stories to tell about their businesses.
The software provider interviewed small business owners from a variety of different sectors, who operate from the district, to share their stories and explore why the area is so popular for entrepreneurs.
According to those interviewed – including owners of Cloudwater Brewery, co-working cafe Ziferblat and healthy fast food chain Kettlebell Kitchen – the area breeds creativity and encourages people to be expressive, something which attracts budding entrepreneurs.
Oliver Shaw, CEO of KashFlow said: “Seeing small businesses thrive in areas like Manchester’s Northern Quarter reminds us why we do what we do at KashFlow – it’s to help them succeed and focus on what they love.
“Being able to get out amongst those driving Manchester’s creative community allows us to see small businesses in action and champion their efforts. There’s some fantastic businesses cropping up across the UK, and some equally fantastic established ones too.”
Tom Bloxham
Tom Bloxham MBE, chairman of Urban Splash, the Manchester property company responsible for regenerating developments in the Northern Quarter, said: “Around twenty years ago, the Northern Quarter was in terminal decline.
“Myself and others had a vision of getting people back to the area by encouraging independent retailers and artists to set up shop here and make it the bohemian area of Manchester.
“Nowadays, the Northern Quarter has that sense of excitement, independence and disruption, which means it naturally attracts a lot of young, disruptive businesses.
The aim of the documentary is to celebrate the thriving startup and small business scene in Manchester city centre and independent quarters in general.
