Software entrepreneurs launch business in York

SOFTWARE entrepreneurs Stefan Perauer and Mark Bryan have launched their first HQ in York.

The 10-strong team make up Thumbmunkeys, an app development business. They have relocated from home offices to a new premises at York Science Park, taking 345 sq ft at its Catalyst incubator.

It was established in Austria in 2011, before moving to York in 2014. Thumbmunkeys is a consulting partner to Xamarin which operates across mobile platforms, including iOS, Android, Mac and Windows.

“We have carved out a niche position in the market and we know it extremely well,” said co-founder Stefan Perauer. “We recognise that mobile app users are becoming more discerning. They want apps and data to load quickly and be simple and intuitive to use, otherwise they will quickly move on to something else.

“Making the move to a new office was really important for the business to progress and grow. The office is modern and in a great location, plus it’s a lovely green environment. We are both cyclists, and it was important for us to be based somewhere with good cycle connections. The Science Park suited us down to the ground. We have been working from home for two years, and moving to The Catalyst has helped bring us all together under one roof.

“This alone has already greatly benefitted the business and, now that we’re located close by, we’re also looking forward to developing closer ties with the University of York as we will have a number of internship and project opportunities in the near future.”

Tracey Smith, CEO of York Science Park, adds, “Thumbmunkeys are a great fit with the mix of residents we have currently at the Science Park, and it’s good to know that their new headquarters really suit the business, in terms of space, style and location. It’s great to have them on site, and our team will be on hand to provide support to help them continue growing the business.”