A flourishing Hull group of companies has launched its new city centre headquarters.
The 55 Group, which takes its name from the address in Whitefriargate it has taken on, unites cross-industry tech-focused organisations Pagabo, Sypro, Loop and Tequ.
MP Emma Hardy joined group chief executive Gerard Toplass to mark the return to full use of the historic former HSBC building, which has been extensively renovated over the past year.
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Mr Toplass said: “The organisation, which has always been based in Hull, marks a new chapter in its history as the businesses involved strive towards a shared vision to challenge the status quo and introduce new technologies making people’s lives easier, safer and greener.
“Hull is a hub of innovation and forward thinking, which has been furthered since Hull City Council committed to the implementation of its Smart City Strategy in 2018. We’re proud to be at the heart of this thriving community and have a new base that will breed jobs, opportunities and a stronger voice for the region.”
Pagabo is a national construction framework provider, while Sypro brings risk, compliance and contract management software forward. Loop is a social value specialist with Tequ the latest addition, a digital-first training platform.
Last year saw it secure major investment from Maven Capital Partners with the aim of capitalising on the building-led recovery with increased spending on national infrastructure projects as the government seeks to deliver improved greener infrastructure. It led to the new group structure being created.
Dr Stuart Kings, group collaboration director, said: “As a people-first organisation, at The 55 Group it’s integral that our vision reflects that of the community in which we work and live. By inviting our colleagues, neighbours and local stakeholders to celebrate our opening we want it to be known that the way we communicate as people is the same as we do as a business.”
The £1.6 million of the Grade II listed building completed in November. It was supported by a £711,000 grant from the Humber High Street Challenge Fund.
As reported, many of the 143-year-old building’s original decorative features have been retained, including the original ceiling detailing, which has been repainted in a striking dark blue with white decorative highlighting, and a glazed dome lantern that sits above a newly created mezzanine floor.
Rich woodwork panelling, decorative columns and generous high windows that flood the workspaces with natural light have also been retained. These elements have been incorporated effectively into the design alongside modern elements to create a contemporary finish fit for modern day working practices, with a clear nod to the building’s heritage.
A private members’ bar has been created in the vaults, while Hotham’s Gin School and Distillery has also moved in.
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