Tech firms more than doubled their output in 2017

​T​he technology advisory and investment firm showcased the tech businesses leading the digital economy of the North at ​the Northern Tech Awards in Edinburgh. The awards championed key players in the region’s digital sector.

Performance Horizon was awarded the ‘Overall Judges’ Award at the Northern Tech Awards, recognising the business’ key role in driving innovation both in the Northern region and on a global scale.

Performance Horizon is an online marketing technology provider, supporting brands in building successful partnerships and improving growth by harnessing data technology and artificial intelligence. Founded in Newcastle in 2010, it has over the years scaled to reach the international market, and now operates across four different continents.

Three of the five fastest growing technology companies in the North of England were e-commerce specialists, showing the depth of expertise in the region in online retail and sales. Northern businesses also proved their skills in delivering IT services: companies in the sector made up almost one third of the region’s top 100 fastest growing businesses.

The awards also highlighted ongoing trends in the Northern tech sector, as the region continued to prove its worth in software development: 22 enterprise software companies were in this year’s top 100 ranking, an increase from 19 companies last year.

Almost one third (29) of this year’s top 100 tech businesses are based in Manchester. Leeds came close behind with thirteen businesses in the ranking having been born and bred in the city.

​​Hugh Campbell, ​m​anaging ​p​artner of GP Bullhound, ​said: “We have seen the Northern region’s technology sector grow extensively as local businesses are scaling to reach the global market. Companies such as Peak AI and Sykes are a testament to the potential of Northern businesses to become international tech giants – we expect to see many more local companies with great ideas grow to reach the global technology landscape.”