Seat Unique, a platform connecting fans with premium tickets and hospitality packages for events, is expanding its UK footprint with the opening of a new office in Manchester.
The London-based firm recently announced investment from 4CAST, a media and investment group founded by England cricketing stars Ben Stokes, Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer and Jos Buttler.
Located in the centre of Manchester, the new office will head up Seat Unique’s operations across Northern England.
It says that the decision has been made to capitalise on the booming Northern economy, its cultural scene and a soaring demand for premium live experiences in the region.
The Manchester team are set to drive business development, strengthen relationships with local partners and give fans access to more live events.
“Manchester’s fast-growing economy and buzzing energy makes the city a magnet for innovation and creativity,” said Robin Sherry, founder and CEO.
“Now, with a dedicated presence in Manchester, we’re making a commitment to the North of England, which is home to a community of people who share our hunger for unforgettable experiences.”
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Seat Unique, which recently ranked 4th in Sifted’s UK and Ireland 100 and 5th in Deloitte’s Fast 50, joins a growing cohort of tech companies and startups flocking to Manchester, one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities.
According to EY’s 2024 Regional Economic Forecast, Manchester’s economy is set to grow by an average of 2.2% annually between 2024 and 2027, outpacing the national average. By 2027, the city’s local economy is expected to expand by over £2.4 billion.
Opportunities for Seat Unique in Manchester have been fuelled by Manchester’s live event infrastructure. The 23,500-capacity Co-op Live venue opened its doors in April 2024, and the AO Arena’s recent redevelopment cemented Manchester’s reputation as a global music hotspot.
This year, Premier League champions Manchester City are expanding the Etihad Stadium to a 61,000-capacity arena.
James Duffy, COO of Seat Unique, added: “In 2024, Seat Unique saw an 89% year-on-year increase in premium ticket and hospitality package sales from major cities in the North, including Manchester, Liverpool, York and Newcastle.
“Despite economic uncertainty, the growth of the northern experience economy has helped Manchester blossom into the economic powerhouse it is today. We look forward to contributing to the city’s growth.”
Seat Unique will be hoping to build on its growing network, with the business having already built relationships at venues including London’s Wembley Stadium and the Co-op Live in Manchester, as well as clubs and promoters such as Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Jacksonville Jaguars UK.