Thriving in 2025: How East Yorkshire Businesses Can Conquer the Digital Landscape with Customer First Digital
Posted on 29th January 2025 at 14:03
Read Time: Approx. 18 Minutes 8 Seconds
Author: Cerie Waudby
As a proud Beverley native, I’ve witnessed East Yorkshire transform into a dynamic region bursting with opportunity. From its historic charm to its thriving business community, the area has continually evolved to meet the demands of modern life. But as we move into 2025, the pace of change in the digital world is accelerating. For local businesses, the challenge is clear: adapt, innovate, and embrace the future.
East Yorkshire: A Region of Opportunity
East Yorkshire’s unique blend of history and innovation creates a fertile ground for businesses. Beverley, with its cobbled streets, iconic Beverley Minster, and vibrant Saturday Market, is a hub of activity for locals and tourists alike. Hull, as a major port city, offers global connections and a burgeoning tech scene, while the Yorkshire Wolds and coastal towns like Bridlington and Hornsea draw visitors seeking natural beauty and seaside experiences.
The region’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with its entrepreneurial spirit, makes it an ideal place for businesses to thrive. From hospitality and retail to tourism and trade, East Yorkshire is bursting with potential waiting to be unlocked.
Navigating the Digital Landscape in 2025
The digital world is evolving rapidly, bringing both opportunities and challenges. In 2025, businesses face shifting consumer behaviours, emerging technologies, and heightened competition. Key trends shaping the digital landscape include:
AI and Personalization: Customers expect tailored experiences, and businesses must leverage AI tools to deliver them.
Video Content Dominance: Short-form video continues to be a powerful tool for capturing attention and engaging audiences.
Social Commerce: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are reshaping how consumers shop, making social commerce a critical strategy.
Sustainability Storytelling: Consumers increasingly value brands that demonstrate eco-conscious practices and authenticity.
For East Yorkshire businesses, staying ahead of these trends isn’t just a competitive advantage, it’s essential for growth.
How Customer First Digital Empowers Local Businesses
At Customer First Digital, we specialize in helping businesses harness the power of digital marketing. Whether you’re a family-run boutique in Beverley, a service provider in Hull, or a coastal attraction in Bridlington, we offer tailored strategies designed to meet your unique needs.
Here’s how we can help:
1. Affiliate Marketing That Delivers Results
Affiliate marketing is a cost-effective way to expand your reach by partnering with influencers, bloggers, and niche platforms. We’ll help you create and manage a program that aligns with your goals, from recruiting high-performing affiliates to optimizing performance.
2. SEO and Content Marketing Excellence
In the digital-first era, visibility is everything. Our SEO strategies ensure your business ranks highly in search results, while our content marketing approach builds trust and authority. From engaging blog posts to optimized web pages, we create content that drives traffic and conversions.
3. Targeted Paid Media Campaigns
Immediate results require precision. Our data-driven paid media campaigns on Google, Facebook, and Instagram maximize ROI by reaching the right audience at the right time.
4. Engaging Social Media Strategies
Social media is more than just a tool for brand awareness—it’s a platform for meaningful engagement. We’ll help you create a social media strategy that resonates with your audience, from organic growth tactics to targeted ad campaigns.
5. Adapting to Emerging Technologies
We stay ahead of the curve, so you don’t have to. Whether it’s AI-powered analytics, augmented reality experiences, or shoppable content, we’ll ensure your business is ready for the future.
What Sets Customer First Digital Apart?
Our approach goes beyond services, we build partnerships rooted in local expertise and a deep understanding of the East Yorkshire market. Here’s what makes us unique:
Tailored Solutions: Every business is different, and so are our strategies. We design bespoke plans to address your specific challenges and goals.
Local Knowledge: As East Yorkshire locals, we understand the nuances of this market and what it takes to succeed here.
Hands-On Support: We act as an extension of your team, offering personalized guidance and dedicated support.
Proven Success: From increasing website traffic to driving sales, our results speak for themselves.
Every corner of East Yorkshire offers unique opportunities for growth:
Beverley: Leverage the town’s rich heritage and high footfall by aligning with local events like Beverley Racecourse days.
Hull: Harness the city’s global connections and thriving innovation scene to expand your reach.
Coastal Towns: Tap into seasonal tourism with targeted campaigns that capture visitors’ attention.
Rural Areas: Build strong relationships with local customers by emphasizing community values and exceptional service.
Let’s Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet
Running a business in East Yorkshire is about more than just profit, it’s about contributing to a community that values heritage, innovation, and quality. At Customer First Digital, we’re proud to support the businesses that make this region extraordinary.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level in 2025, let’s start the journey together. From affiliate marketing and SEO to social media and paid campaigns, we have the tools to help you succeed.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let’s create extraordinary opportunities for your business.
East Yorkshire’s potential is limitless. Together, we can ensure your business thrives in the ever-changing digital world.
East Yorkshire Midweek Brief: Local Business Highlights of the Month
Views wanted on 320MW solar farm planned near Beverley
The landscape of East Yorkshire is set to transform with the advent of several ambitious solar farm projects near Beverley. These developments are part of the UK’s broader commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions, emphasizing renewable energy as a cornerstone of sustainability. In this blog, we’ll explore the details of these projects, their importance, and what actions communities and individuals can take.

What Are These Projects About?
East Yorkshire is witnessing a surge in renewable energy initiatives with multiple solar farms planned near Beverley. Key projects include:
Kingfisher Solar Farm by Ørsted: A proposed 320MW photovoltaic facility three miles north of Beverley, classified as a nationally significant infrastructure project.
Peartree Hill Solar Farm by JBM Solar: A 320MW installation east of Beverley, expected to power approximately 136,000 homes annually.
Field House Solar Farm by Albanwise Synergy Ltd: A 40MW facility near Tickton, featuring 87,000 solar panels and battery storage for energy reliability.
Kenley House Farm Solar Project by Boom Power Ltd: A 49.9MW solar farm near Wawne village, set to generate energy for 16,000 homes over 40 years.
Wyton Road Renewable Energy Project by Gamcap: A 49.99MW solar farm with a 20MVA Battery Energy Storage System, designed to connect to the National Grid.
These projects aim to harness solar energy, store it effectively, and deliver it to thousands of homes across the region.
Why Are These Projects Important?
The proposed solar farms represent a significant leap toward sustainable energy generation in the UK. Here’s why they matter:
Environmental Impact: Solar energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. Projects like these contribute directly to the UK’s net-zero targets.
Energy Security: Solar farms, combined with battery storage systems, provide a reliable energy source, especially during peak demand or periods of low generation from other sources.
Economic Benefits: These initiatives can boost the local economy by creating jobs during construction and maintenance phases, while also supporting the broader renewable energy sector.
Community Enhancements: Developers often incorporate ecological improvements, such as planting native trees and hedgerows, enhancing biodiversity in rural areas.
However, concerns about construction traffic, land use, and visual impact highlight the need for careful planning and community engagement.
What Actions Should You Take?
As solar energy projects gain momentum, individuals and communities can play a vital role in shaping their success:
Stay Informed: Learn about the proposed projects through local consultations and online resources. Understanding their scope and benefits allows for informed opinions and constructive feedback.
Participate in Public Consultations: Share your views on the projects during public consultation periods. Your feedback can help address concerns and refine project plans to better align with community needs.
Support Renewable Energy: Advocate for sustainable practices in your community, from installing solar panels at home to supporting local initiatives that promote clean energy.
Consider Long-Term Benefits: Embrace the shift toward renewables as a necessary step to combat climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
The proposed solar farms near Beverley are a testament to East Yorkshire’s commitment to renewable energy. By supporting these projects and engaging in meaningful dialogue, we can collectively pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future. Let’s harness the power of the sun and make a positive impact on our environment and community..
'All we've worked for all our lives will go'
Farmers in East Yorkshire recently staged a powerful protest against proposed inheritance tax reforms that they believe could threaten the very fabric of rural communities and family farms. With tractors lining the streets of Beverley, their rally highlighted the personal and economic stakes at play. In this blog, we delve into the details of the protest, its significance, and what actions should be considered to support the farming community.

What Is the Protest About?
The protest revolves around the UK government's plan to introduce a 20% inheritance tax on agricultural assets valued above £1 million, set to come into effect in April 2026. Announced during the Chancellor's Budget speech in October, the reform is part of a broader strategy to make inheritance tax "fairer" and deter wealthy individuals from using farmland as a tax shelter.
Farmers, however, argue that these changes disproportionately impact small family farms. Protestors like Dave Adamson, a 300-acre farm owner, expressed concerns that this tax would prevent him from passing his farm on to his children, threatening generations of hard work.
Retired electrician John Copsey echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that such measures could "devastate" the rural economy by forcing family farms to sell up, paving the way for large corporations to dominate the industry.
Why Is This Protest Important?
This issue is not just about taxes; it touches on the survival of family farming, the rural economy, and the cultural identity of the countryside. Here's why this protest matters:
Preservation of Family Farms: Family farms are integral to the UK's agricultural heritage, providing jobs, food, and maintaining the countryside’s character. Tax reforms could lead to the fragmentation of these farms, disrupting this legacy.
Economic Ripple Effects: Farms support a network of industries, from suppliers to local businesses. Their decline could trigger a chain reaction of economic hardship in rural communities.
Food Security and Sustainability: Family farms often prioritize sustainable farming practices. A shift toward corporate farming could result in practices that prioritize profit over ecological responsibility.
Cultural and Social Impact: Beyond economics, farms represent family legacies and community bonds. Losing these would mean a loss of rural identity.
While the government defends the reforms as a "fair and balanced approach," farmers argue they jeopardize the very foundation of rural life.
What Actions Should Be Taken?
The protest is a wake-up call for policymakers, communities, and individuals to consider the broader implications of these reforms. Here are some actions to address the concerns:
Review Tax Proposals: Policymakers should revisit the proposed inheritance tax, seeking input from farming communities to create a fairer framework. Exemptions or scaled rates for smaller family farms could mitigate negative impacts.
Support Local Farmers: Communities can rally behind local farms by buying their produce and advocating for their interests. This shows solidarity and reinforces the importance of their contributions.
Engage in Dialogue: Farmers and policymakers must maintain open channels of communication. Protests like this should be seen as opportunities to collaborate on sustainable solutions.
Raise Awareness: Individuals can amplify farmers’ concerns by sharing their stories and raising awareness about how these reforms could reshape the countryside.
Encourage Diversification Support: Many farms diversify their income streams through tourism, education, or renewable energy. Government programs supporting such efforts could help ensure farms remain viable.
The farmers' protest in Beverley is a stark reminder of the challenges facing rural communities in an evolving economic landscape. Family farms are more than just businesses—they are lifelines for local economies, stewards of the environment, and custodians of cultural heritage. Striking a balance between tax reforms and preserving these essential elements of rural life is critical for the future of the UK’s countryside.
Sustainable living comes to Beverley with latest Lovell Development
A new era of eco-conscious living is arriving in Beverley, as Lovell begins construction on The Paddocks, a ground-breaking £20 million mixed-tenure development in Molescroft. With sustainability at its heart, this project promises to deliver high-quality homes and set a benchmark for renewable energy solutions in Yorkshire. In this blog, we’ll explore the details of this development, its significance for the community, and how it reflects the future of sustainable housing.

What Is the Paddocks Development About?
The Paddocks is an ambitious residential project located on the former site of Longcroft Lower School, off Burton Road, Molescroft. Lovell, in partnership with East Riding Council, aims to create a vibrant and eco-conscious community through the construction of 53 homes.
This development is notable for its sustainability initiatives:
Gas-Free Homes: The Paddocks will be one of the first gas-free housing developments in Yorkshire.
Air-Source Heat Pumps: Each home will feature cutting-edge air-source heat pumps, reducing reliance on traditional heating systems and lowering carbon emissions.
Affordable Housing: A quarter of the homes will be allocated as affordable housing, supporting local families, and fostering inclusivity.
With a diverse range of two- to four-bedroom homes, the development caters to a variety of buyers while honouring Beverley’s rich history through thoughtful architectural design.
Why Is This Development Important?
The Paddocks is more than just a housing development—it is a vision for the future of sustainable living. Here’s why it matters:
Environmental Impact: By adopting renewable energy technologies like air-source heat pumps, The Paddocks significantly reduces carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s broader climate goals.
Economic Benefits for Residents: Gas-free homes and renewable energy solutions lower utility costs, making eco-friendly living more accessible and financially beneficial for residents.
Community Transformation: The project revitalizes a previously unused educational site, turning it into a thriving residential area that supports both modern living and local heritage.
Affordable Housing: By allocating 25% of homes to affordable housing, The Paddocks addresses local housing needs and promotes diversity within the community.
A Model for Future Developments: The Paddocks sets a precedent for sustainable housing projects in the region, inspiring other developers to prioritize environmental considerations.
What Can You Do?
The Paddocks presents an exciting opportunity for potential homeowners and the community to embrace sustainable living. Here’s how you can get involved:
Register Your Interest: If you’re considering a move, visit Lovell’s website to learn more about The Paddocks and secure a place in this forward-thinking community.
Advocate for Sustainability: Support projects that prioritize renewable energy and eco-conscious designs by engaging in discussions about sustainable housing in your area.
Learn About Air-Source Heat Pumps: Familiarize yourself with renewable energy technologies like air-source heat pumps to understand their benefits and consider their adoption in your current or future home.
Celebrate Local Heritage: The Paddocks seamlessly integrates Beverley’s racing history into its design. Embrace this connection by learning more about the area’s cultural roots and supporting initiatives that honour local traditions.
Spread the Word: Share news about The Paddocks to encourage others to explore sustainable living options, fostering a collective effort toward a greener future.
The Paddocks is a testament to how thoughtful development can harmonize modern needs with sustainability, community inclusivity, and heritage. As construction progresses, this project not only promises to enrich Beverley’s housing market but also serves as an inspiring example of eco-conscious innovation. Let’s celebrate and support this step toward a more sustainable future for Yorkshire!
Yorkshire and Humber businesses see pick up in confidence, new survey shows
Yorkshire and the Humber are experiencing a remarkable surge in business activity, signalling strong economic momentum across the region. Driven by rising consumer confidence, strategic investments, and a resurgence in key sectors like manufacturing and services, businesses are reporting increased demand and higher output. This growth not only underscores the region’s resilience but also reinforces its position as a thriving hub for innovation and opportunity. With businesses adapting to economic challenges and seizing new opportunities, the future looks promising for Yorkshire’s evolving commercial landscape.

Why is it Important?
The rise in business activity in Yorkshire and Humber has wide-reaching implications for the regional economy and its stakeholders:
Economic Growth:
Increased business activity directly contributes to regional economic development. Higher demand and output can lead to job creation, enhanced income levels, and improved living standards, creating a ripple effect of prosperity across communities.
Investor Confidence:
The region's thriving business environment signals stability and opportunity, attracting both domestic and international investment. Such confidence fosters innovation and long-term economic growth.
Supply Chain Stability:
With key sectors like manufacturing experiencing a rebound, regional and national supply chains are strengthened. This stability benefits businesses of all sizes, reducing disruptions and enhancing overall market efficiency.
What Actions Should You Take?
To capitalize on the growing business activity in Yorkshire and Humber, consider the following steps:
Explore Opportunities: Entrepreneurs and businesses should assess the regional market for areas of expansion or investment. Identifying gaps and emerging trends can position you to take advantage of the region's upward trajectory.
Network Locally: Engage with local business networks, chambers of commerce, and industry groups to stay informed about regional developments. These connections can facilitate collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and access to new opportunities.
Monitor Economic Indicators: Regularly review economic reports and forecasts for the Yorkshire and Humber region. Staying informed on key trends and performance metrics will enable you to make data-driven decisions regarding operations, investments, and strategic planning.
Conclusion
The surge in business activity within the Yorkshire and Humber region signifies a promising period of economic growth and opportunity. By understanding the drivers behind this positive trend, stakeholders can identify actionable insights to enhance their strategies. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or policymaker, proactive engagement with the region's evolving economic landscape will ensure that you are well-positioned to benefit from its continued progress.
High-performance broadband provider expands to Humber region
The broadband landscape in Yorkshire and Humber is set for a significant boost as Hull-based fibre network operator MS3 Networks announces a new partnership with leading internet service provider (ISP) IDNet. This collaboration will bring greater choice and high-quality broadband connectivity to thousands of homes and businesses across Hull, Scunthorpe, Grimsby, Immingham, Cleethorpes, and Mexborough. IDNet, established in 1996, is known for its fast, reliable business internet services and has expanded into home broadband to cater to the growing demand for high-performance internet. With a focus on customer service, social responsibility, and sustainability, IDNet stands out as the first UK ISP to receive B Corp certification. By joining MS3’s Gigabit-capable full-fibre network, IDNet enhances its ability to deliver high-speed, reliable broadband to a broader audience. With MS3 already reaching over 200,000 premises and targeting 535,000 by the end of 2025, this partnership promises to strengthen connectivity and support regional economic growth..

Why This Matters
More Choice for Customers: For years, residents and businesses in Hull and surrounding areas have had limited options when it comes to broadband providers. This partnership introduces more competition, giving customers access to a provider that prioritizes quality service, flexible contracts, and outstanding customer support.
High-Quality, Reliable Internet: With an increasing number of people working from home and relying on digital connectivity, demand for fast, stable broadband has never been higher. IDNet’s commitment to high performance and reliability ensures that homes and businesses will benefit from seamless connectivity, low latency, and excellent customer service.
Social and Environmental Impact: IDNet isn’t just about broadband; it’s a company with a strong ethical foundation. From using 100% renewable energy for its operations to supporting local sports teams, the ISP is making a positive impact on the community. This aligns with MS3’s own mission to improve lives through digital connectivity and community initiatives.
Economic Growth for the Region: A strong digital infrastructure is key to business growth, remote work opportunities, and overall economic development. With MS3 expanding its fibre network and IDNet offering premium broadband services, businesses in Hull and Humber will benefit from greater digital capabilities, boosting productivity and innovation.
How to Maximize the Benefits
Check Availability: Use MS3’s price comparison tool to see if IDNet’s services are available in your area. The network is rapidly expanding, so if it’s not available now, it may be soon.
Compare Broadband Plans: IDNet offers a variety of plans, including residential, business, and leased-line services. Take the time to compare speeds, contract flexibility, and pricing to find the best fit for your needs.
Take Advantage of Flexible Contracts: Unlike many ISPs that lock customers into long-term contracts, IDNet provides one-month rolling contracts with no cancellation penalties. This flexibility allows you to try their service without long-term commitment.
Explore Additional Services: Beyond broadband, IDNet also offers phone services and dedicated business connections. If you run a business, consider bundling services for better value and streamlined support.
Support Ethical and Sustainable Business: By choosing IDNet, you’re not just getting fast internet—you’re supporting a company that prioritizes environmental sustainability and community engagement. This means your broadband choice contributes to a more responsible and socially conscious digital industry.
Conclusion
The partnership between MS3 Networks and IDNet marks a significant step forward for broadband choice and quality in Hull and the Humber region. With MS3’s expanding full-fibre network and IDNet’s commitment to reliability, flexibility, and ethical business practices, customers now have a powerful new option for their internet needs. For those looking for fast, dependable broadband with a strong focus on customer service and sustainability, this partnership is a game-changer. To explore available deals and see if you can benefit from this new offering, check MS3’s broadband comparison tool today.
Wold Top Brewery Launches New Beer in Support of 'Tryanuary'
Wold Top Brewery, a family-owned brewery located in Yorkshire, has introduced a new beer as part of the 'Tryanuary' campaign. This initiative encourages consumers to support independent breweries and experiment with new beer Flavours during January, countering the trend of 'Dry January.' Through its involvement, Wold Top Brewery seeks to spotlight local craft beers and sustain the brewing industry during a month traditionally marked by slower sales.

Why is it Important?
Wold Top Brewery's participation in 'Tryanuary' holds broader significance for the local economy and the craft beer community:
Supporting Local Businesses: By launching a new beer, the brewery inspires consumers to engage with and support local breweries. This support is crucial for the survival and growth of independent businesses that form the backbone of the craft beer industry.
Industry Sustainability: The campaign maintains consumer interest in craft beers during a typically slow sales period. It helps breweries mitigate the impact of 'Dry January,' ensuring steady revenue streams and sustaining operations.
Cultural Appreciation: 'Tryanuary' encourages the exploration of diverse beer styles and Flavors, enriching consumer understanding and appreciation of craft beer culture. This celebration of heritage and creativity fosters a deeper connection between breweries and their patrons.
What Actions Should You Take?
To support this initiative and enjoy the benefits of 'Tryanuary,' consider the following steps:
Participate in 'Tryanuary': Purchase beers from local independent breweries, such as Wold Top Brewery, to explore unique Flavors while supporting the craft beer industry.
Visit Local Breweries: Take the opportunity to visit taprooms or attend events hosted by breweries. These visits offer insights into their products, brewing processes, and the passion behind the craft.
Share Your Experience: Use social media to share your discoveries, tagging posts with #Tryanuary to inspire others to participate. Personal recommendations can amplify the campaign's impact and encourage broader community involvement.
Conclusion
Wold Top Brewery's efforts to champion 'Tryanuary' underline the importance of supporting local businesses and celebrating the craft beer industry's creativity. By participating, consumers can enjoy unique beer experiences, contribute to the sustainability of independent breweries, and play a part in preserving an essential aspect of regional culture and heritage.
The Expanse Hotel in Bridlington Announces Closure After Decades of Operation
The Expanse Hotel, a beloved family-owned establishment located on the seafront of Bridlington, has announced its closure after serving the community for decades. Known for its traditional charm and historical significance, the hotel has been a key part of the local hospitality scene. The decision to close stems from multiple factors, including economic challenges and shifting market conditions, highlighting the difficulties faced by traditional hotels in a changing industry landscape.

Why is it Important?
The closure of the Expanse Hotel carries profound implications for the local community and beyond:
Economic Impact: As a longstanding contributor to Bridlington’s economy, the hotel’s closure may result in job losses and reduced tourism revenue. Its role in attracting visitors and supporting local businesses underscores its economic importance.
Cultural Loss: The Expanse Hotel has been a significant part of Bridlington’s heritage, representing a link to the town’s history and identity. Its closure marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the community's cultural fabric.
Hospitality Industry Trends: This development reflects the broader challenges faced by traditional hotels in adapting to modern consumer preferences and economic pressures. It highlights the need for innovation and resilience within the hospitality sector.
What Actions Should You Take?
To navigate the impact of this closure and support the local community, consider these steps:
Support Local Businesses: Patronize other local establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and attractions, to help sustain Bridlington’s economy during this transitional period.
Stay Informed: Follow local news to gain insight into the factors behind such closures and to understand their implications for the community. Awareness can help inform collective responses and solutions.
Engage in Community Discussions: Participate in conversations about the preservation of local heritage sites and businesses. Your voice can contribute to initiatives aimed at revitalizing Bridlington’s economy and cultural landmarks.
Conclusion
The closure of the Expanse Hotel is a poignant reminder of the challenges facing traditional hospitality businesses and the importance of community support. By staying engaged, supporting local enterprises, and contributing to discussions about the future, residents and stakeholders can work together to mitigate the impacts of such closures and preserve Bridlington’s economic vitality and cultural heritage.
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