Design agency picked to represent university at Venturefest

A YOUNG design agency has been selected to represent York St John University at the upcoming Venturefest exhibition as a result of its involvement with the university’s Acorns small business development programme.

United By Design, based in York, will take part in the Yorkshire universities’ prestigious showcase at the event, which takes place at York Racecourse on February 11.

Founded in August 2007 by designer Owen Turner, the company’s growing reputation for creative communication ideas and solutions has led to the recent acquisition of clients such as web innovation company SiteClick, confectionary and drinks manufacturer SLOEmotion and the London-based Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

Mr Turner said: “I am delighted that United By Design has been chosen to represent York St John at Venturefest.

“As well as an opportunity to raise the profile of the company amongst those visiting the event, it’s also a chance for me to explain to other small business owners what York St John’s Acorn programme can do for them, as it’s helped me so much.”

Now in its fourth year, the Acorns programme provides new entrepreneurs with practical advice and support to help them succeed in business.

Head of the Acorns programme James Walker said: “Owen’s enthusiasm, commitment and can-do attitude are just the qualities a start-up entrepreneur needs.

“He represents all that Acorns stands for, in that not only is he keen to learn from others but also to share his knowledge and experience where it can help the other start-up businesses on the programme”.

Mr Turner has also recently been granted membership of the Chartered Society of Designers.

Governed by Royal Charter and with HRH Prince Charles as one of its patrons, the society promotes best practice in design and admits only qualified designers who practise to the highest professional standards.