Outrank celebrates six years in business with unprecedented growth and community impact

Outrank, the Middlesbrough-based digital marketing agency, celebrates its sixth anniversary this December following a year of exceptional achievements, growth, and community contributions.

2024 has been a landmark year for Outrank, with the company reporting a 37% revenue growth in the past 12 months. Headcount has soared from 21 to 35, with plans to expand further to 45 in 2025 to meet growing demand. Outrank has also welcomed a new C-suite leadership team and board of team leaders to drive its ambitious growth strategy.

Among its 2024 highlights, the agency supported 890 unique new clients, retaining 190 long-term partnerships, including several companies backed by Sara Davies of BBC Dragons’ Den. To further strengthen its position, Outrank acquired three businesses this year and is targeting an additional two to three acquisitions in 2025.

Supporting the North East is a key priority for Outrank. Early in 2024, it launched the North East Business Boost, providing over £25,000 worth of free marketing support to promising local startups. The initiative includes professionally designed websites and complimentary digital marketing services to help young businesses thrive.

And in September, Outrank partnered with Barclays Eagle Labs to host its successful Digital Drop-In event, where local businesses could access free expert SEO and marketing advice from the team. Due to its popularity, a follow-up event is planned for January 2025. Outrank has also continued its collaboration with Teesside University’s Fuel Programme, supporting entrepreneurs with workshops and mentorship.

Plans for 2025 include securing ISO 9001 certification for enhanced quality and process excellence, achieving a 30% uplift in revenue, and expanding PPC and social media offerings. The company also plans to expand into larger headquarters to accommodate its growing team and will launch an EMI share incentive scheme to reward and retain staff, reflecting its commitment to employee satisfaction and engagement.

Stephen Robinson, Founder of Outrank comments: “Six years ago, we set out with the goal of helping businesses grow through powerful digital marketing strategies. Today, I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved – not just for our clients but for the incredible team behind Outrank.

“The North East is home to some of the UK’s most innovative businesses, and by continuing to build partnerships, we can make this region the powerhouse it’s destined to become. As we look to 2025, the entire team at Outrank is excited to deliver even more world-class results and expand our horizons.”

Outrank’s dedication to employee wellbeing and professional development has been recognised nationally, with the company being named one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Wellbeing and Best Workplaces for Development by Great Place to Work®, thanks to its outstanding workplace culture and industry-leading perks.

Looking ahead, Outrank is preparing to broaden its footprint beyond the UK. With ambitions to establish bases in the USA and Middle-East within the next five years to deliver its award-winning digital marketing expertise to an international audience.