WARRINGTON-based creative technology firm Urban Zoo has announced rapid expansion plans after securing a six-figure investment.

The funds will help more than triple the company’s already growing team of software developers in the next 12 months, to help further extend their range of innovative technology solutions to existing market sectors.

Urban Zoo, based in the town centre, already has several high-profile clients in the sports industry, public sector, professional services and corporate sector by specialising in utilising technology for fan, citizen, client and employee engagement.

The company’s managing director, Chris Grannell, uses his 15-year experience at Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe to help provide the under-served corporate market with interactive technologies, from apps, gamification and chatbots to conversational search applications, such as Amazon’s Alexa.

The company’s senior management team has also been strengthened by appointing David Muir as chair and Rob Moore as commercial director.

David is a former KPMG, PwC and IBM Partner, who now works in multiple sectors including transport, smart cities and retail and Rob, who has more than 25 years’ experience working with KPMG and Unilever in the UK and overseas.

Mr Grannell said: “We are delighted to have reached the company’s five-year anniversary with such significant investment and are pleased that David and Rob have joined as directors.

"Together, we’re in an excellent position to help corporates take advantage of connected technologies such as gamification, the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence, to help with digital engagement, increasing loyalty and sales.

“Our growth will continue to build on the platforms we have already successfully delivered for companies such as Everton and Stoke football clubs, large regional councils and attractions like Edinburgh Zoo.”

The company has also just moved offices to The Base on Dallam Lane to provide more space for their growth plans.