81. Distract

Founders: Peter Watson, Bradley McKenny
Founded: 2015
Website: www.distract.co.uk

Mention the word “holistic” to many people and their minds will be filled with all sorts of unusual medical procedures, from acupuncture to rituals that use special stones to heal your aura. In the Lincoln office of award-winning digital marketing agency Distract though, the word has a much simpler meaning, and it defines an approach that is helping them deliver real results for their clients.

In short, Distract’s holistic approach means they look at the whole company, and use their expertise in search, social, digital PR and websites to deliver an integrated marketing strategy that helps their clients to grow and make an impact.

The agency was started by Peter Watson and Bradley McKenny while they were at university – with student loans and overdrafts helping to get the business off the ground. Fast forward five years and Distract is thriving, with a varied list of over 50 clients that covers everyone from national charities to high street accountancy firms and ecommerce startups. This is also their second appearance in the Startups 100, testament to their rapid growth and innovative approach.

Another key focus is professional development – all staff are continuously provided with training that develops their knowledge and skills, both within their department and specific industry niche. This ensures that every team member feels valued, and that Distract can always stay ahead of the rapidly advancing digital marketing curve.

Fittingly, Distract is one marketing agency that’s really making some noise – we can’t wait to see what they do next.