Member News
An innovative North East data connectivity firm has intensified the fight against data poverty after securing a brand new city centre base.
Forum member Fuse Media fills dormant business spaces with free Wi-Fi and offers unique advertising opportunities in prime high street locations.
And after opening up its Newcastle headquarters on the Quayside, an ambitious management team is eyeing growth across the UK.
But fighting the battle against data poverty remains a priority for a team perfectly positioned to positively impact on the cost-of-living crisis.
“We’ve always supported landlords during vacancy periods by installing free Wi-Fi with advertising in empty units,” explains Fuse Media founder and director Jamie Mableson.
“This helps to save on business rates but the knock-on effect is that the Wi-Fi is freely available to the public and local businesses.
“At a time when the cost of living continues to stretch families across the country we’re able to make a real difference to data poverty.
“Many of us take data and Wi-Fi for granted but for many communities it’s simply another monthly cost that many can’t afford.
“Our approach means data is available for free in locations accessible to people and small businesses who need it most.”
Fuse has made the striking Akenside Studios — at the bottom of Newcastle’s Dean Street — its national base ahead of a period of strong predicted growth.
And Jamie believes there’s no better place from which to launch his company’s data connectivity revolution.
“We’re a North East-based team that’s tied to the region and committed to playing our part in boosting a strong local economy,” he adds.
“But our reach and ambition extends far beyond Tyneside. We’re in talks with landlords across the UK and looking to breathe new life into empty spaces nationwide.
“Initially we set up Wi-Fi within vacant premises but we’re primed to help new tenants establish high speed networks and do business without delay.”
Fuse assists tenants with interim data connectivity, enabling them to move into new premises prior to a permanent internet connection going live.
The firm’s proven end-to-end service includes the management of industry-leading technology — ensuring no costly lag.
“Landlords can maximise their income and tenants can trade without friction,” adds Jamie. “It’s a win-win and has the potential to transform high streets up and down the country.
“When we were looking at a sustainable business model that could benefit landlords, tenants and the local community, this set-up ticked all of the boxes.
“We’re already working on the next phase. It’s a natural extension of what we already do and has the potential to turbocharge another important player in the business community. Watch this space — literally!”
