New social and influencer marketing agency launches in Sunderland

A new social media and influencer marketing agency has launched in Sunderland, seeking to amplify North East influencers while supporting brands to build authentic social channels. 

The Social Type, owned by Jessica Taylor-Branton, was set up to harness the influence of local talent to amplify brand messages and leverage the power of social media to drive meaningful engagement. 

Based in the iconic Grade II listed Mackie's Corner in Sunniside, The Social Type moved into its office space at the end of 2023, following the completion of The Co.llective, a suite of 16 workspaces aimed at creative businesses. 

Jessica said: "The restored Mackie's Corner is absolutely beautiful and we feel so inspired and lucky to be based in such an exciting part of the city centre.

"Since starting the business last year, we have held our first networking event for local influencers, started to work with some brilliant local businesses on their social media output, and expanded with a team of freelancers.

"We also hosted our first social media training workshop in May, which we hope to offer more of to support businesses in Sunderland and across the region."

With years of experience in the industry, Jessica has worked for both agencies and brands, and she now works alongside three local creatives - a graphic designer, social media expert and influencer marketing manager - which enables The Social Type to offer a breadth of creative services that support both businesses and influencers alike. 

Jessica added: "We know what it takes to create a well-curated brand presence and we help businesses to strategise and create content that aligns with their business goals, including introducing influencer marketing to businesses to form successful partnerships. 

"We currently manage three influencers based in London, Glasgow and Newcastle. We're looking forward to welcoming more influencers to our database going forward, especially those based in the North East as we believe local influencers should be getting the same opportunities and compensation as those based in London.

The Social Type is being supported by the Business Investment Team at Sunderland City Council, which has helped them establish their first office premises and introduced them to the wider business support networks in the city, enabling them to grow their team and expand their business reach.

Cllr Kevin Johnston, dynamic city cabinet member for Sunderland City Council, said: "Mackie's Corner and the Sunniside area has transformed into a vibrant hub for creative businesses.

"We're thrilled to be supporting The Social Type and look forward to seeing the work they do to support local influencers and businesses in the digital landscape."