A TECH savvy business owner from Maryport is helping traders from Cumbria and the North East to improve their online presence.

Jon Waite is running his successful business Advertise1 between his hometown of Maryport and the North East.

Independent family businesses from both regions are being supported in improving their website and social media presence.

Jon said: “All I wanted to do was take a business and improve it with their online presence.”

Despite the challenges of Covid-19, Advertise1 had its busiest year in 2020.

Jon left Maryport to study a computing degree in Newcastle, after graduating he worked for several companies in the North East and Cumbria. In April 2015, he established Advertise1.

Since establishing the business, Jon’s business has helped Cumbrians increase trade by building sleek and professional online platforms.

Maryport hairdressers, Yasmin Chloe Hair Design, a customer since 2016, had a bespoke website built to advertise the salon and search engine listing, so customers can easily find information on her salon plus contact details and directions quickly.

Founder Yasmin Barnes from Maryport says, “I have known Jon and Advertise1 for years, he is passionate about what he does. “He comes in for a haircut, and always has ideas of what I can do to help my business. I thank him massively for his help and expertise.”

The business has grown despite the challenges of the pandemic.

Advertise1 has recruited, a marketing and design manager, and a client relations executive a new technical recruit is expected to follow later in the year.

Covid-19 restrictions mean that Jon is locked down in the North East but the team at Advertise1 ensure customers still feel supported.

The agency is using video conferencing software such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams to work with current and new clients across West Cumbria, as well as across the country and in Europe, maintaining connections in Spain and Bulgaria. All the staff have a home office set up to work remotely.

Jon said: “It’s been a bit difficult but Zoom has helped massively. When I can travel back I’ll be in Maryport to visit clients once a fortnight.”