Why the Humber
Creative and Digital
By Peter Andrews, Senior Lecturer in Marketing at the University of Hull
When it comes to creative, advertising and digital business, there is no need to look to Leeds, Manchester or even London, as the Humber region is bursting with activity.
While you will find creative energy in most cities, the Humber offers a real alternative to the usual hotspots with an industry that stands out with big ideas, authenticity and an entrepreneurial spirit, producing brilliant work that can compete with anywhere.
Creative companies, agencies and freelancers in the Humber region are noticeably different; often described as ‘authentic’ and ‘real’, they are not afraid to challenge clients in their search for excellence. There is a strong focus on using creativity to deliver tangible business results, rather than just winning awards; although you will still find many agencies in the Humber region with enviable ‘trophy cabinets.’
Full Service
You may be surprised to find every type of creative organisation in the Humber, which can challenge the best the industry has to offer. Social Media, Digital Marketing, Advertising, PR, Film, Animation, Graphic Design, Virtual Reality, E-Commerce and a full range of other digital services are to be found without venturing outside of the region. Whether you are looking for a new commercial approach, a sophisticated PR campaign, an effective social media campaign or new packaging design to make your brand stand out from the competition, you will find what you are looking for. There is no brief too big or too small that can’t be handled effectively.
Thriving Community
The Humber is proud to be the base of many large creative agencies, However, you will also find a thriving community of freelancers and experts, working in collaboration to bring fresh ideas and new insights to some of the most challenging briefs. Shared creative office space, networking events in collaboration with the University of Hull provides opportunities for digital and creative talent from across the region meet with the aim of inspiring and empowering creative thinking.
Investment
Increasing investment in the region has boosted creative industries. You need look no further than the development of the £15m purpose-built Centre for Digital Innovation (C4Di). In the heart of Hull’s creative quarter, it serves as a collaborative space and incubator for likeminded creatives, and should be top of your list if you are looking for new opportunities or to find the heartbeat of innovation in the region.
Developing Talent
With such a thriving industry and a high quality of life, it is no surprise that many professionals are attracted to work in the region. The sector has seen a rapid rise in opportunities as businesses, particularly those involved in digital sectors, have grown rapidly over recent years.
There is no shortage of opportunities and the talent pool is supported by regional colleges and the University of Hull, which has won national awards for its leading courses in Marketing.
No Barriers
Geography is no longer an issue, in fact, the Humber's location is a strength in a world that is increasingly digitally connected. There are approximately 7,000 digital jobs based in Hull alone, all benefiting from ultrafast broadband speeds from KCOM of up to 900Mbps, making it one of the quickest services in the country. It is no wonder why digital. film and advertising agencies in the region win business from across the world: sharing creative ideas has never been easier.
