Manchester-based eCommerce agency PushON is celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of growth, digital innovation and international client success.
PushON was founded in 2005 by Simon Wharton and Roy Wilding. Originally set up as a specialist SEO agency, the business quickly expanded into a full-service eCommerce offering, including website development, maintenance and digital marketing.
A breakthrough contract with Bench Clothing pushed PushON into Adobe Commerce (Magento) development, laying the groundwork for the agency’s eCommerce specialism. High-profile work followed, including projects for Virgin Credit Cards, Hyundai, Silver Cross, Brandon Hire Station, Ryman, and the development of Nottingham Forest’s official site.
PushON has won several eCommerce awards, including the European Ecommerce Awards, and also co-founded SASCon, the UK search, analytics and social conference that became a landmark event in the industry. As active members of Manchester Digital, PushON plays a key role in driving digital innovation and growth across Greater Manchester.
The agency’s growth (revenue is up 40% YOY) has been underpinned by its people, and PushON has built a reputation for developing and retaining talent. Wharton stepped down as managing director in 2017 to make way for Sam Rutley, who first joined PushON as an SEO executive in 2008 and now leads the company. Alex Hogan, who began as a PPC executive ten years ago, is now an associate director.
Simon Wharton, co-founder of PushON, said: “When Roy and I started PushON, we had the belief that we could do things differently and better, and that belief still drives the business today. Our culture has always been informal, open and collaborative. We give people opportunities, and they grab them. That approach has carried us through twenty years, and I’m proud that so many talented people have built long careers with us.”
Today, PushON employs 45 people, partners with over 35 enterprise clients globally and has tripled in growth over the past decade. The agency continues to work with leading B2B and consumer eCommerce brands, with one recent standout success being its partnership with beauty company P. Louise, supporting the business as it scaled from £65 million to £100 million in revenue.
As it enters its third decade, PushON plans to expand its international reach and harness artificial intelligence to drive new efficiencies and results for its clients.
Roy Wilding, co-founder of PushON, said: “Our vision is clear. We’re doubling down on what we do best, while embracing AI to maximise productivity and outcomes for our clients. The UK is among the best in the world at digital commerce, and we intend to be at the forefront of that. We have ambitious plans to expand and grow through our wider group, PushON Commerce, which has been established to take our expertise onto a truly global stage.”
To mark its twentieth year, PushON brought together staff, clients and stakeholders for a celebration event at Track Brewery in Manchester, recognising the people and partnerships that have defined its journey so far.